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First remote-controlled barge test in Germany
Photo: HGK Shipping
/HGK Shipping has received Germany’s first official approval to test remote-controlled inland vessels on its canal network. Federal transport minister Patrick Schnieder handed over the permit to HGK CEO Steffen Bauer on 13 May in Berlin.
The pilot project applies to a coupled barge convoy operating between Scharnebeck and Salzgitter, remotely guided from a control centre in Duisburg (pictured). Initially, a full crew will remain on board, with reduced-crewing trials planned as a next step.
The project uses ‘SeaFar’ technology and aims to counteract the growing shortage of skilled ship operators. The general directorate for Waterways and Shipping (GDWS) approved the test following successful trials and safety evaluations. HGK hopes that this will mark the beginning of a scalable model for digitally enhanced inland shipping. (ah)