JSW Jaigarh Port Authority Issues Strict Mooring and Anchoring SOP for Monsoon Season

By
Mfame Editor
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40

The JSW Jaigarh Port Authority in India has indeed issued a circular outlining the Standing Operating Procedure (SOP) for vessels mooring and anchoring during the monsoon season, which is effective from May 15, 2025, to September 15, 2025

Mooring Standards

All vessels are mandated to ensure that their mooring equipment and practices fully comply with both OCIMF MEG4 (Oil Companies International Marine Forum Mooring Equipment Guidelines, Fourth Edition) and specific port standards. Before arrival, all mooring lines, hardware, winches, and anchors must be thoroughly inspected to confirm they are in proper working order.

Mooring Practices:

  • Auto-Tensioning Systems: The use of auto-tensioning systems is strictly prohibited during a vessel’s stay. Manual tensioning of mooring lines must be maintained at all times to allow for adaptation to dynamic loads, especially during monsoon conditions.
  • Standby Fire Lines: Vessels must continuously maintain charged fire lines both forward (fore) and aft (stern), ensuring they are ready for immediate emergency deployment.
  • Main Engine Readiness: Main engine immobilization is strictly prohibited. Vessels are required to be capable of immediate departure with short notice at all times.
  • VHF Watch: A continuous watch must be maintained on VHF Channel 11 for communication with the Marine Control Tower.

Mooring Configuration (Mandatory by Vessel Type): Specific mooring line configurations are mandatory, depending on the vessel type:

  • Capesize Vessels: Require a 5+5 configuration, which includes 5 headlines, 5 sternlines, and 5 spring lines both forward and aft.
  • Panamax / Handymax / LPG Vessels: Require a 4+4 configuration, consisting of 4 headlines, 4 sternlines, and 4 spring lines both forward and aft.
  • Mini Bulk Carrier (MBC) Vessels: Require a 3+2 configuration, comprising 3 headlines, 3 sternlines, and 2 spring lines both forward and aft.

Anchoring Procedures in Monsoon Conditions

  • Seabed Check: It is crucial to ensure that the seabed is suitable for anchoring, specifically avoiding rocky or uneven terrain.
  • Scope: Vessels must maintain a minimum scope ratio of 5:1, meaning the length of the anchor chain deployed should be at least five times the water depth.
  • Anchor Setting: The anchor should be lowered slowly while the vessel is moving sternward, with careful consideration of wind and current conditions.
  • Anchor Watch:
    1. A continuous anchor watch must be maintained.
    2. The ship’s position should be consistently monitored, and checked for any dragging, using GPS/radar and visual bearings.
  • Weather Monitoring: Forecasts and port alerts must be constantly monitored.
  • Emergency Readiness: Propulsion must be kept ready for immediate use in the event that the anchor begins to drag.

Additional Monsoon-Specific Guidelines:

  • Gangway Safety: Gangways must be rigged safely with netting and a life buoy securely attached. They must also be adjusted as tides change to ensure safe access.
  • Bridge Manning: Proper bridge manning, including an Officer on Watch, must be maintained, particularly during rough weather conditions.
  • Pollution Prevention: All deck and tank openings must be tightened and secured. All cargo and ballast operations must be managed carefully to prevent spills during heavy rainfall.

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Source: Safety4sea