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Greek authorities have made a significant discovery during a seabed inspection off the coast of Epanomi, south of Thessaloniki. A naval mine was found at a depth of 28 meters while the Hellenic Coast Guard conducted an inspection ahead of planned expansion works at Thessaloniki Port. According to a statement released by the Hellenic Coast Guard, the area was being surveyed for the planned extension of Pier 6 at the port.
The Hellenic Coast Guard immediately notified the relevant Hellenic Navy authorities after the discovery. The Navy is now responsible for assessing the situation and ensuring the safe removal of the device. This process is being carefully executed to minimize any potential disruptions to port operations.
Thessaloniki Port is a critical shipping hub in northern Greece, providing a vital connection between Europe and the Middle East. The planned expansion of Pier 6 aims to enhance the port’s capacity and accommodate larger vessels. However, the discovery of the naval mine has introduced an unforeseen challenge to these expansion plans.
Details about the age and origin of the mine are not yet available. An investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the mine’s placement and how it ended up at the seabed. The Hellenic Navy has assured that all necessary measures are being taken to safely remove the device, minimizing any risk to personnel and the surrounding environment.
The discovery and subsequent removal of the naval mine are significant developments for the safety and security of Thessaloniki Port. Greek authorities are working diligently to resolve this situation and to ensure the port’s continued operation, while also maintaining a high level of safety and security.
The Thessaloniki Port expansion project has been a subject of interest for both local and international businesses. The delayed project timeline is likely to be influenced by the removal of the mine, which could potentially push back the completion date.
Local authorities are expected to provide further updates on the situation as more information becomes available.