The water level of the Caspian Sea continues to decrease, with the area of shallow water already reaching 22,000 square kilometers. According to the Astrakhan Regional Branch of the Russian Geographical Society, the average annual decline in the water level is 69 centimeters.

As to Zarema Soltanmuradova, Director of the Institute of Ecology and Sustainable Development at Dagestan State University, these trend threaten the future of shipping and oil production in the northern part of the Caspian Sea.

However, according to the regional Minister of Transport and Road Infrastructure, Dzhambulat Salavov, the company currently operates steadily, with positive trends in cargo handling and transshipment. The depth of the port channel has now reached 5 meters, while the minimum depth has increased to 4 meters. This means that any vessel can enter the port and unload its cargo – the top official says.

To illustrate this point, the minister referred to the neighboring ports in Astrakhan Oblast, where the water shallowness was more pronounced, necessitating the transshipment and rerouting of vessels with deeper drafts. This is where Makhachkala port gains a distinct advantage today and seeks to engage with us. However, it is undergoing dredging operations.