An algorithm to determine the most suitable location to construct new commercial harbours

Abstract

In the planning of a new harbour, much attention should be given to minimising the transportation time and cost during the lifetime of the harbour. An algorithm is proposed for determining the most suitable location for constructing new commercial harbours and ports. To determine the most suitable location for new harbours locally, a simplified simulation method is prepared for computing the characteristics of sea waves. In the proposed global model, the distribution of population, the transportation cost, the capacities of existing harbours and the demands for export/import cargos are employed as the main factors. In this model, an index called the total transportation price index (TTPI) is introduced. TTPI is calculated and examined for any potential location where the new harbour or port might be constructed. The proposed model has been validated by applying it to a case study for the conditions of several big commercial harbours of Iran’s Persian Gulf coastline. The case study indicates that the position of the port of Imam Khomeini is the most technically suitable; and that the Chahbahar port has the worst location for serving the entire country and should be limited to serving locally the nearby provinces.