Genk (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Port of Limburg in Genk repurposes the old Ford site into a green, secure terminal. CEO Benjamin Hermans highlights electric ships, River Drone 4, and advanced surveillance technology.
As VRT News reported, the newly opened Port of Limburg container terminal in Genk, Belgium, is a major step towards eco-friendly shipping. Located on the former Ford factory site, it uses the Albert Canal to connect with important transport routes. This port aims to be a key spot for moving goods in the Limburg area and beyond.
Officials mentioned that the project shows how old industrial sites can be turned into centres for green transport. The main goal is to lower emissions and make transport more efficient. 2 new electric ships, River Drone 4, are starting soon. These ships will move containers without causing pollution and will help make transport greener and more effective.
“The ships can be controlled remotely from shore.”
CEO Benjamin Hermans
What makes the port of Limburg a model for eco-friendly and safe transport?
The River Drone 4 ships mix smart technology with being green. People can control them from the shore, which makes things safer and cheaper. The Port of Limburg’s boss, Benjamin Hermans, says this helps them be both efficient and eco-friendly. These electric ships pollute way less than regular ones. They help reduce traffic and carbon emissions. The Port of Limburg is leading the way in green transport.
The Port of Limburg puts a lot of emphasis on safety, along with being green. They’ve invested in strong security to stop things like drug trafficking. The whole area is fenced off, and access is tightly controlled with guards and electronic systems.
Every driver is checked thoroughly before entering. They use advanced cameras, including thermal and tracking cameras, to watch the terminal all the time. Drones also fly around to keep an eye on things from above, helping them react quickly to any problems and spot any suspicious actions, like people messing with containers or going where they shouldn’t.
The port is fully enclosed, and access is strictly controlled through guarded entry points and electronic systems. Every driver must go through a thorough screening process, ensuring only authorised personnel are allowed on site. They mentioned that a key innovation is the use of blockchain technology to track every container, creating a secure digital record to prevent tampering and fraud.
According to spokesperson Hermans, the port has created a new standard for inland terminal security. He mentioned that by prioritising safety in all operations, the Port of Limburg shows how an inland port can be efficient, sustainable, and resistant to criminal activity.
