Port of Riga improves rail, road, and berth infrastructure ‣ WorldCargo News
Dredging works at BCT complete the final phase of the Port of Riga's modernisation, boosting commercial competitiveness and military mobility. The completion of dredging works to improve vessel access to the extended berth at SIA Baltic Container Terminal (BCT), which is operated by Mariner, a part of Hili Company, marks the final phase of the Freeport of Riga Authority's infrastructure modernisation project. Implemented in December 2024, this initiative is part of the EU co-funded scheme titled "Increasing the dual-use capacity of the transport infrastructure by modernising road, rail, and berth infrastructure."
"This project significantly enhances the infrastructure and commercial competitiveness of the Port of Riga, while strengthening military mobility for Latvia's armed forces and its international partners," stated the Freeport of Riga Authority. Central to the Port of Riga's development strategy, the project aims to transform Kundzinsala into a state-of-the-art logistics hub with digitised and automated systems. Alongside infrastructure upgrades such as a new traffic overpass and an upgraded port access control point, the modernisation supports the expansion of industrial areas and attracts new businesses to the port.
Bridge reconstruction
The project involved several interconnected phases.
The reconstruction of the road and railway bridge over Sarkandaugava was completed in 2023. This was followed by the reconstruction of the motor road connecting the bridge to BCT's facilities in Kundzinsala, finalised by the end of 2023. "As a result, we have greatly improved the traffic infrastructure in Kundzinsala, which is becoming the port's primary freight logistics hub," said Ansis Zeltins, CEO of the Freeport of Riga. "The upgraded infrastructure supports large-scale developments, including renewable energy projects, and bolsters national security by improving connectivity to the Adazi military base."
Kundzinsala's terminals handle over 1,000 truck units daily, making the upgrades essential for alleviating congestion, reducing truck processing times, and minimising the environmental impact on residents through decreased noise and dust.
BCT berth extension
In the summer of 2024, the berth at BCT, the port's largest container terminal, was extended by 57.3m, bringing the total quay length to 506.3m across three berths. This upgrade enables BCT to simultaneously accommodate two large vessels--container ships, cargo ferries, or military vessels--including those up to 340m in length. Improved handling efficiency is expected to enhance the terminal's operational performance and competitiveness.
As BCT is a critical hub for NATO-aligned military logistics, these enhancements directly support Latvia's military mobility and defence readiness.
Railway crossing
Further works completed in 2024 include the reconstruction of the railway crossing at Uriekstes Street near the Kundzinsala access point and the construction of a new connecting road between BCT and the Kundzinsala parking area. Both upgrades aim to expedite commercial and military cargo flows. The project originated in early 2022, with feasibility studies and design work laying the groundwork for an application to the European Executive Agency for Climate, Infrastructure, and Environment (CINEA).
A tripartite agreement between the Freeport of Riga Authority, CINEA, and BCT was signed in May 2023, formalising the initiative. Funded under the CEF Transport Military Mobility Programme, the project represents a total investment of EUR12.51m, with 50% co-financed by CINEA.
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