Jul.25--EASTERN Canada's drought has threatened delivery to St Lawrence River ports, principally Montreal, as summer water levels fall, inducing some lines to apply surcharges because ships must carry less to reach ports up to 1,000 miles from the sea.

Hapag-Lloyd, OOCL, Mediterranean Shipping Co (MSC) Maersk Line and CMA CGM have all highlighted the problem in recent weeks, issuing public announcements and notices to the trade, reports American Shipper.

But the Port of Montreal has declared it will continue to handle ships despite the lower water levels.

"Traffic is near normal," said port spokesman Yves Gilson. "Today we are at 11 inches below chart datum. Yesterday was 12 inches and early this week 14. Rainfall makes all the difference."

One carrier felt demand between Europe and Montreal is pretty high, despite the European debt crisis. The surcharges are likely a way for lines to offset the demand they perceive they are not being able to meet because of low water.

"Most vessels calling the port are not reaching full draft," he said. "Even in June 1965, we had water levels lower than we have had in the past week and the port continued to receive ocean going vessels. As well, as we are developing new electronic navigation tools, we are better equipped to increase navigation in the St Lawrence Channel."

(Source:shippingazette)