In support of the proposed expansion of Port Salalah in Oman, Halcrow was retained to perform a comprehensive coastal engineering study. The study was used to assess the impact of the expansion of the port upon the coastal processes within the region, and to determine if any adverse environmental conditions result. The study was comprised of the following phases:

Model Studies
A series of numerical model studies to evaluate the construction of two additional berths, and the extension of an existing breakwater. Several proposed configurations for the layout of the harbor were modeled, and recommendations were presented. Numerical modeling was performed using DHI’s Mike21 Boussinesq model. Physical modeling was performed following completion of numerical modeling.

Wave Monitoring Program
Waves were monitored within and outside the existing Port Salalah harbor to determine the origin of a long wave energy phenomenon observed during the monsoon season. Long waves had reportedly resulted in significant motions of vessels moored to the berths. Measures to mitigate vessel motions were identified. Directional and non-directional wave gauges recorded data at five locations simultaneously for six months.

Coastal Erosion Study
Evaluation of the effects of the expansion of the port on the coastline in the Salalah region. A field reconnaissance and data collection program was followed by numerical modeling to determine how the local wave regime was affected, and the resulting influence upon sediment transport rates. Beach profiles were surveyed at 25 transects approximately every three months. Numerical modeling was performed using DHI’s Mike21 NSW and Litpack software packages.

Harbor Sedimentation Study
Evaluation of potential sedimentation problems at the port resulting from the discharge of two adjacent wadis. Following data collection and sampling, sedimentation rates and patterns within the proposed expansion area were assessed using DHI’s Mike21 Litpack software, a two-dimensional tidal hydrodynamic, and sediment transport numerical model.