Heavy bridge load-in for Indian port

India-based JM Baxi Heavy has completed the load-in of a 963 tonne bridge module for McDermott Asia Pacific’s ONGC KG-DWN-98/2 gas field project at Krishnapatnam Port, in Andhra Pradesh, India.

The barge was repositioned from a side-on to a stern-on configuration to facilitate the load-in. (Photo: JM Baxi)

The logistics company loaded the bridge at Rohini Yard, near Raigad, back in April 2024, setting sail for the east coast of India.

The bridge was intended for installation in the KG Basin as part of the project scheduled for May 2024. However, due to adverse weather conditions, the installation had to be postponed, requiring the relocation of the bridge on land until the next available installation window in December 2024.

This delay prompted JM Baxi Heavy to reassess the load-in feasibility, as the major loading structures used for the bridge were no longer available for load distribution, load-in, and stowage due to the monsoon. To address this, JM Baxi Heavy started engineering modifications a month in advance, considering the challenging weather conditions.

To ensure a smooth load-in, JM Baxi Heavy re-engineered the load-out steel structures. Various locations were evaluated for the load-in, including Krishnapatnam Port, Visag Port, Hindustan Shipyard Jetty (Visag), and the possibility of returning the barge to Rohini Yard. After careful consideration of costs and timelines, Krishnapatnam Port was selected for the load-in operation.

Following the completion of an engineering study, the engineering team visited Krishnapatnam Port to assess feasibility and prepare for the operation.

Triton 330 barge, which had been on standby at Krishnapatnam anchorage since June 2024, was permitted to berth on July 4, 2024. The load-in operation, which required meticulous timing and coordination, was carried out on July 8, 2024.

The barge was repositioned from a side-on to a stern-on configuration to facilitate the load-in. The operation used 64 SPMT axles and 30 ballast pumps to ensure alignment with the jetty and maintain stability.

The bridge was successfully stowed at the 1J Container Terminal Yard, with protective plates deployed along the route to prevent damage to port infrastructure.

This operation marked the first stern-on load-in at Krishnapatnam Port. Tugs were on standby for 48 hours to ensure a safe operation and to avoid disrupting other port activities.