VLI kickstarts rail yard works in Aracruz Port

VLI is set to begin construction works this week in Aracruz, Espírito Santo, aimed at improving the railway infrastructure and enhancing the efficiency of the section that provides access to Barra do Riacho port. The port handles various types of cargo, including pulp, timber logs, and steel products. The project involves an investment of approximately R$ 37 million, which will be utilized to expand the marshaling yard and establish a light wagon repair facility. In addition, as part of their commitment to the local community, VLI and Vale, in partnership, will sponsor social initiatives. The completion of the construction is expected during the second half of the year.

Diego Zanella, the Operations Director of VLI’s Central-East Corridor, stated, “This initiative is yet another solution aimed at adding value to our customers, such as LD Celulose, which began its operations in 2022, transporting dissolving pulp directly from LD’s factory in Minas Gerais via rail. In addition, expanding the marshaling yard will enable safe and uninterrupted train circulation in both directions, resulting in enhanced operational efficiency.”

Establishing the light wagon repair facility will further improve efficiency by allowing for minor repairs, such as component replacements and wheel changes, without transporting the rolling stock to VLI’s workshop located in Cariacica, also situated in Espírito Santo.

VLI and Vale have also committed to several community benefits alongside the railway improvement project. These include the relocation of a level crossing in the area, complete with pavement and lighting enhancements. In addition, sealing the operational area will reinforce safety measures for both residents and the overall operation. Other contributions involve the installation of recreational and fitness equipment in Barra do Riacho, as well as the asphalting of the access road to the marshaling yard.

VLI’s investment in dedicated wagons (215 in total) and locomotives (nine in total), amounting to approximately R$ 400 million, allows for transporting LD Celulose’s cargo to the port system of Espírito Santo. This significant undertaking contributes to increasing the cargo transport capacity within the Central-East Corridor.

In addition to the ongoing projects, VLI is actively exploring new investment opportunities to expand cargo volumes transported to ports in Espírito Santo. A memorandum of understanding was recently announced with Vports (formerly Codesa) to expand the new Porto de Vitória. Collaborative studies may identify potential railway, port, and terminal investments totaling R$ 200 million.

Currently, VLI handles approximately 25 million tons of cargo annually through its ports and railways in Espírito Santo. These operations involve the Centro-Atlântica railway in Minas Gerais and the Railroad Vitória a Minas.

Sharing is caring!