Inland Navigation Commission Working Group 266: Capacity Augmentation and Structural Expansion of Existing Inland Water Transport Facilities – call out for members.
As the global economy and international trade continue to expand, inland waterway transport (IWT), recognized for its efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability, is becoming increasingly pivotal. However, numerous existing IW structures and facilities are no longer able to meet the rising demands of contemporary and future transport requirements, necessitating comprehensive expansion and capacity enhancement in some countries.
A critical challenge faced by global IW systems is the significant increase in cargo volumes coupled with the growing trend of vessel up-sizing. The enhancement of capacity for IW structures should not rely solely on physical expansion; rather, the optimization of operational management and scheduling is equally critical. Intelligent scheduling systems and automated management technologies can substantially improve the efficiency of existing facilities.
The main goal of WG is to systematically compile and critically evaluate a diverse range of international case studies and technological advancements in navigation infrastructure enhancement, which may help to increase capacity of existing IW Facilities. This initiative seeks to:
• Establish a robust framework for assessing and enhancing the throughput capabilities of critical inland navigation hubs.
• Identify and integrate best practices and innovative technologies to elevate the operational efficiency and capacity of existing navigation structures.
• Develop comprehensive guidelines for the expansion and modernization of navigation facilities, underpinned by proven engineering solutions and adaptive project management strategies.
For more information please download the Terms of Reference
Interested in being part of this International Working Group?
If you would like to represent the Australian & New Zealand National Section of PIANC on this Working Group, please apply to the AU-NZ Board. Many of our members are currently active on a number of PIANC Working Groups and they produce significant outcomes that benefit maritime matters in our region. They also bring significant benefits to participants who get to meet, learn from and share with global experts.
Please advise if you qualify as a Young Professional (YP – 40 years or younger) as there are two positions available in each Working Group, one of which is for a YP.
How to Apply
Please forward your application before COB Friday 11 April 2025 to:
Apply to Greg Britton, (Technical Commission Lead AU-NZ) E: greg.britton@rhdhv.com, and please also cc Paul Weston, EO E: Paul.weston@pianc.org.au
Process for Applications
Your application should include a detailed CV/Resume with a short covering letter outlining:
1. Your experience in the particular technical field;
2. Why the WG is relevant for the Australian / NZ content and the direct benefits of participation;
3. A commitment that you will prepare (for distribution to all members) a short report providing an overview & outcomes of the WG etc;
4. Whether or not you are seeking to access Travel Assistance Policy (TAP )funding; and
5. Whether you qualify as a Young Professional.
Eligibility:
Please note that Working Group Members need to be Individual Members of PIANC, working for a Corporate Member or Platinum Partner, be an invited expert or a be a member of a Sister Organisation.
Process:
A Selection Committee will review all nominations received and make a final recommendation to the PIANC AU-NZ Chair.
Responsibilities:
Please be aware that membership of a Working Group requires your active participation. This includes attending typically four Working Group meetings per year – most held virtually but typically at least one in-person meeting once a year at an international location (generally Europe). You may apply to be a ‘Corresponding Member’ if you do not want to undertake the normal travel requirements of full membership. If you are expert in the field, however, and would like to influence the outcome of the Working Group we encourage you to participate as fully as you are able.
Costs:
All costs associated with membership must be borne by either yourself or your employer, however PIANC Australia & New Zealand has a Travel Assistance Policy to partially assist with travel & attendance at Working Group meetings, in order to promote Australian and New Zealand technical input into these important WG activities.
Under the PIANC AU-NZ Travel Assistance Policy (TAP), annual available funding per WG member is $3,000, subject to application and approval. TAP funds may be payable post travel upon the successful completion of a WG Summary Report and production of relevant travel receipts.