Montevideo Port Dispute Halts New Ferry Service to Buenos Aires

The ongoing conflict over the use of a vital ferry ramp at Montevideo port has thwarted Colonia Express's efforts to launch a new service to Buenos Aires. Despite receiving government authorization in late July, the Uruguayan ferry operator faces a blockade due to Buquebus's exclusive control over the necessary unloading facilities.

Colonia Express, which has been in operation since 2007, is urging authorities to mandate shared access to the pontoon currently owned by Buquebus. This floating platform, essential for loading and unloading vehicles, was built by Buquebus after it secured a passenger terminal concession in 1996, which ended as public infrastructure in 2016. The National Ports Administration has stated that the matter is between the two private companies, emphasizing that the pontoon is not part of public infrastructure, thus leaving its use at the discretion of Buquebus.

In response to the impasse, Colonia Express’s director, Sebastián Planas, announced plans to initiate legal proceedings against both the Ministry of Transport and the National Ports Administration. He expressed frustration, stating, "The ministry must respond to us and give us a solution… the ports authority should require Buquebus to share the pontoon or remove it." Colonia Express is keen to commence operations in time for the summer season, but the deteriorating condition of the Maciel pier complicates matters further. Currently, the pier suffers from maintenance issues and dredging challenges, and a tender for its reconstruction is still in the planning stages.

Source: en.mercopress.com