Speaking to El Eco, he highlighted the strategic role of the port in national development and analyzed the main needs and challenges of the Port Terminal of the Coast.
“The idea is to know firsthand how the operation works, what is needed to improve and how we can better compete for the load transit that comes through the hydrovy,” Gandini said. In that sense, he stressed the importance of dialogue with both port workers and the private sector, since “they are those who invest capital and make the load flow.”
Infrastructure and equipment
Asked about the current state of the port, the director acknowledged that there are significant deficiencies in infrastructure and equipment. “Missing tugs, improving moorings for barges, ensuring the operation and also working on the docks and the crane. All that must be in optimal conditions,” he said.
He also questioned the slowness of state purchasing procedures. “They are surrounded by guarantees, but they are very cumbersome and even more when the decisions are made in Montevideo. These procedures must be made with the needs of the interior.”
Amarras and citizen concern
One of the issues that generated concern in the local community is the expansion of barrels in front of the city, an initiative promoted by the ANP. Gandini showed caution about it. “The first thing is to know if more moorings are really needed. Today we have 48, we must reach 60? I think no. A loose barge is a danger, it can cause important accidents.”
Rates
Regarding the use of moorings by barges that do not operate in the public port, Gandini said that current bonuses and discounts should be reviewed. “Many choose to tie here because it is cheaper, even if they do not operate in this port. It is an issue to analyze. We need rates that defend public investment and allow generating resources to maintain and improve infrastructure.”
Role and political vision
As for his role as a representative of the National Party at the ANP, Gandini clarified that his task is not opposition but of contribution. “Do not come to control, that is not established. I come with the vision of my party, which defends the complementarity between public and private investment. I have a constructive attitude: collaborate, cooperate and contribute another look.”
Coastal Port
Finally, the vocal director highlighted the central role of Nueva Palmira within the national port system. “Palmira is the port of the Hydrovia, it is our only port of loads throughout the coast. Neither Fray Bentos, nor Paysandú, nor jump fulfills that function. Here we have a great opportunity, but also competition.”
He mentioned the need to capture new loads, such as iron ore and grain traffic from Paraguay. “We have to provide adequate services and be competitive to attract that load. It is the old competition between ports, and today also between shipping companies.”
