Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge Impact Study on Marine Traffic Based on Ship AIS Data

Abstract

The iconic Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge (KTD), completed in 2019, introduced restrictions and additional costs for certain sizes of vessels entering the Terengganu River estuary. This study aims to identify and propose possible solutions for vessels affected by the structural limitations of the KTD. The methodology employed in this research involved several steps. First, Ship AIS data for the Terengganu River mouth area was collected for periods before and after the completion of the KTD. From this data, the air drafts of vessels were determined to identify those potentially impacted by the drawbridge's vertical clearance. The study also investigated the methods adopted by operators of vessels with air drafts exceeding 12 meters to continue operating in the Terengganu River estuary following the completion of the bridge. In addition, a literature review was conducted to examine drawbridge operation practices in other countries. The findings show that fewer vessels entered the Terengganu estuary in 2021 compared to 2018, with a notable reduction in the maximum vessel size. Furthermore, no sailing vessels were recorded entering the waters around Duyong Island in 2021, whereas such activity was observed in 2018. A review of drawbridge practices in the United States revealed that state authorities typically implement a combination of fixed schedules and on-demand openings, with waterway users generally given the right of way over land-based vehicle traffic.