Work to remove sand from the entrance channel to the port of Sainte-Marie began on October 11. Cinor entrusted the operation to the maritime works company Ocetra, based at the Port. The 900,000 euro contract initially consists of summary dredging which will finally allow boats to enter and leave the port., closed since June 11 following several accidents linked to the silting of the channel. Since its creation in 1994, at the same time as that of the airport's long runway, the port is regularly blocked by sediments brought by swells and currents. The phenomenon has increased in recent years. To solve it, Ocetra will soon implement two pumps with a capacity of 700 m³/hour, installed on a barge and which can operate in all silted areas. The market anticipates that the pumps will remain on site for two years and can be activated whenever necessary. Silting problems do not prevent the continuation of port extension work, which will increase from 180 to 337 places. La Cinor engage 19,6 million euros, dont 5,3 million European grants, in the operation. Launched two years ago, the work is due to end in April 2022, in compliance with the initial schedule. An additional basin has already been dug and 2,000 m² of buildings are under construction on the quays. They will host commercial activities (restaurants, fishmonger…) and premises for professional fishermen.
The Port of Sainte-Marie finally cleared of sand
