Express Global Logistics, member to the Worldwide Project Consortium (WWPC) in India, was awarded a challenging project to ship four units of RTGCs from Nhava Sheva to Mundra. 

The sheer dimensions of 25.27 meter (L) X 11.94 (W) meter X 25.1 (H) meter and a total weight of 535 tons were challenging in itself to achieve a proper stowage, roll-on/off and vessel stability.

Firstly, the Engineering team had to put in their innovation skills to test and to achieve the best stowage on one barge, with limited space on deck. Then, it was the Marine team’s job to ensure sea going stability in compliance with IMO regulations, for such a heavy and high center of gravity load.

In compliance with EXG’s own QHSE standards, and customer’s stringent QHSE regulations, and after series of meetings with all stake holders including customer, port officials, marine warranty surveyors and customers appointed third party Inspectors a plan was chalked out clearly defining and describing the activities at each stage.

EXG was faced with a tidal range of over 4.0 meter at the Port of Nhava Sheva and over 6.0 meter at the Port of Mundra. The barge maintained sufficient pumps to meet these tidal variations by ballasting and de-ballasting. Roll-on and roll-off of the RTGCs was perfectly carried out by maintaining the barge at the same level as the jetty. The gap of 3.5 meter between the jetty and the barge was bridged by a steel ramp, designed and tested for the purpose.

Sea fastening was done in accordance with the CARGO SECURING MANUAL for the vessel and was subject to grilling discussion and requirements of Marine warranty surveyor and inspectors. The resultant plan was supported with proper calculations and in line with the weather predicted for the intended voyage. Continuous monitoring of the weather en-route and passage planning for the barge was done to ensure safe voyage and arrival at Mundra.

All four units of the RTGCs were safely handed over to customer at Mundra after roll off in record two tides.