Providing an efficient alternative to road transport is among the challenges the EU is facing. To this end, the East Mediterranean MoS Master Plan aimed at improving the quality of infrastructure and services in ports, ensuring optimal connections between ports and hinterland, while establishing more frequent and reliable shipping services.

Within the framework of this project, we addressed several issues related to non-physical barriers, such as administrative and custom procedures, in an effort to facilitate maritime transport and further strengthen the development of the Motorways of the Sea (MoS) between EU and the neighboring countries. The ultimate goal was to establish and develop MoS links, nodes and interconnections necessary for eliminating current bottlenecks, filling in missing links, improving interoperability on the main routes and reducing road congestion through modal shift. Furthermore, other targets set within this project referred to the identification of bottlenecks in port access, the efficient use of the existing and new infrastructures, the promotion of intermodality and finally, the improvement of the network’s safety and reliability.

In order to achieve the above targets, we reviewed the existing transport system in the area and elaborated a market study on the needs for the MoS routes within the region. We identified all bottlenecks and missing links and proposed a coherent set of measures in order to address all issues detected. Based on the findings, the East Mediterranean Motorways of the Sea Master Plan was elaborated, which included all proposed projects for the region (evaluated and prioritized). Finally, an investment and time plan, was elaborated, which included the action plan for the implementation of the proposed measures and actions.

 

Client: Ministries of Mercantile Marine of Greece, Italy, Cyprus, Malta and Slovenia | Year: 2007-2008