OREANDA-NEWS. April 28, 2012. Ilim Group's Branches in the Bratsk and Ust-Ilimsk Districts (Irkutsk Oblast) are currently preparing for navigation period. In 2012 both Branches will unload 2.5 million cubic meters of wood from water.

Currently, the experts of the crane department and fleet division of Ilim Group's Forest Branches in the Bratsk and Ust-Ilimsk Districts are inspecting the condition of cranes and vessels and replacing the worn-out parts. Overall 60 vessels in the Bratsk and 18 in the Ust-Ilimsk District will be involved in the navigation in 2012.

Over 50% of the incoming wood in the Bratsk Branch is delivered by water. This year the Company plans to increase unloaded wood volume by 25% compared to 2011. In the Ust-Ilimsk District, up to 15% of the incoming wood is delivered by rafting and there are no plans for further increase.

The navigation is expected to be started in both Branches on June 1, 2012.