Switching cargo capacity to the transport hub of Ust-Luga

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to assess the probability of transferring the cargo flow of the main cargo of Belarus from the Baltic ports to the railways of Russia and Russian ports in the Baltic. Using such theoretical methods of research as analysis, generalization, forecasting and hypothesizing, the main trends in the development of the railway network and Russian ports in the Baltic Sea, as well as factors affecting the likelihood of changes in the scheme of cargo flows of export cargo, are identified. Brief conclusions are made about the probability of changes in cargo traffic. In particular, it was found that such criteria as the price offered by Russian logistics companies and port operators for servicing significant volumes of Belarusian cargo, as well as the development of logistics chains, will have a significant impact on the decision of Belarus to abandon the services of Baltic ports. A study of the operational activities of the Baltic sea ports and the Lenin-grad Region suggests that they take place in a highly competitive environment and require constant work to diversify cargo flows, as well as investments to modernize the port and related railway infrastructure. The construction of the Ust-Luga railway junction has brought this junction to a leading position not only in Russia, but also in Europe. The Ust-Luga transport hub is capable of processing 20 types of cargo at 12 terminals, according to the level of technological equipment. It is assumed that when the port of Ust-Luga reaches its maximum capacity by 2024, the transit potential of Belarusian cargo will be fully provided.