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Document summary:
- Title: Pipeline transportation plan to free up roads.
- Author: Alan Dickey
- Source: Lloyd's List
- Copyright: Lloyd's List
- Date: Monday October 23 2000
Pipeline transportation plan to free up roads
The humble pipeline should be given as much priority by planners, local and national government as any other transport modality, the Dutch Ministry of Transport says, writes Alan Dickey .
Transportation in the Netherlands of liquids and gases by means of traditional pipelines is expected to grow by 40% by the year 2010. Pipelines therefore need to be placed on an equal footing with other forms of transport.
In particular, Dutch research shows that opportunities are also seen for the underground pipeline transport of general cargo. Given the extremely high investment costs and changes that are required to the logistical infrastructure and networks, the large-scale introduction of such transport is not to be expected in the short term.
Together with private industry the ministry has investigated the extent to which underground transport and pipelines - both traditional pipeline transport and more innovative solutions - can contribute towards the goals with respect to accessibility, sustainability, spatial planning and the economy.
Pipeline transport is sustainable and safe and accounts for an important and growing share of total freight transport. The Dutch government is to support this development by means of the National Traffic and Transport Plan (NVVP).
Although the national introduction of underground logistics systems is not realistic at the present time on account of the high costs and the major logistical changes, it can provide a solution for specific situations. These include connecting up the largest flower auction in the world (in Aalsmeer) and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to the European rail network, or within an urban agglomeration. The Dutch government is to provide funding for practical trials.
The Netherlands has a marked need for unhindered logistics transport systems, including above-ground systems.
Both above-ground and underground solutions will need to be developed step by step and to form part of a logistics network, in which combination with passenger transport can also be explored. Decisions about further research are to be taken this year.