Keppel launches Kazakhstan's first barge

Singapore: Keppel Corp reports that its subsidiary Keppel Kazakhstan has launched the first ever offshore vessel tobe  built in that country, in a ceremony attended by national President Nursultan Nazarbayev. The 92-metre transportation barge, equipped with auto ballasting system to facilitate skid-on/skid-off operations, is expected to be completed this year. It is the first of four units plus associated equipment being supplied to Agip Kazakhstan North Caspian Operating Co under a $150m contract, to support development of the Kashagan oil field. The yard, located in Aktau on the north-east shores of the Caspian, is Kazakhstan's first and provides some 1,000 locals with direct or indirect employment.  [11/10/06]