NMPA Reissues Tender for Telescopic Gangway System

New Mangalore Port Authority Reissues Tender for Telescopic Gangway System at Oil Berth No. 13: Addressing Safety and Financial Challenges

In an effort to enhance its infrastructure, the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) has reissued a tender for the design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of a telescopic gangway system for Oil Berth No. 13 at Panambur. This initiative is crucial for handling LPG vessels; however, significant concerns have arisen regarding the lack of explicit safety specifications and the financial framework associated with the tender.

Critical Safety Specifications Missing

The telescopic gangway system is essential for safely transferring personnel and cargo between ships and the port, especially when dealing with hazardous materials like LPG. The tender does not specify that the gangway and its accessories must be spark-proof and intrinsically safe, raising concerns about the safety of operations. Without clear safety requirements, there is a risk that contractors may use outdated or insufficient technologies that do not meet the necessary standards for handling flammable substances.

First Tender Cancellation and Lack of Transparency

Originally, the first tender for this project was issued on 23 January 2024 but was canceled due to “technical reasons.” The reissuance on 01 October 2024 has left many in the industry questioning the lack of transparency regarding the reasons for the initial cancellation. This ongoing secrecy raises concerns about whether the project is being adequately prioritized and if stakeholders are being kept informed about critical developments.

Design Approval Requirements

A significant challenge facing contractors is the requirement in few things shall be approved by an independent international classification agency. Organizations such as the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), Bureau Veritas (BV), and Det Norske Veritas (DNV), or any other member of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), must certify specific work to ensure compliance with global safety standards. This adds complexity to the procurement process, as contractors must ensure their designs meet rigorous international requirements.

Financial Challenges: Schedule of Payments

The tender also specifies a complex schedule of payments for contractors, which could pose challenges for cash flow and project execution. The payment schedule is as follows:

• 5%: On submission and approval of all design documents, drawings, operation and maintenance plans, and other documents as specified by the Employer’s Representative or Third-Party Inspection Agency (TPIA).
• 65%: Upon the receipt of the telescopic gangway at the site, duly certified by the Employer’s Representative/TPIA as per the technical specifications outlined in the contract.
• 30%: Upon installation, construction, erection, testing, satisfactory trial runs, and acceptance of the commissioning of the entire system by the Employer’s Representative/TPIA as specified in the contract.

Importantly, no part payment is admissible against the supply of advanced materials, which may deter contractors from pursuing high-quality options that could enhance safety and operational efficiency.

Scope of Supply and Installation Challenges

In addition to the complexities associated with the payment structure, contractors face challenges related to the scope of supply. The successful bidder will be responsible for providing essential commissioning spares, pontoons, tugs, cranes, special tools, tackles, foundation bolts, embedments, inserts, anchorage, oils, fuel, grease, and lubricants. Furthermore, as access to the installation site is restricted, contractors will need to arrange for pontoons, tugs, cranes, and other equipment necessary for installation and commissioning. This requirement adds another layer of logistical complexity that contractors must navigate.

Benefits of Telescopic Gangway System Implementation

The implementation of a telescopic gangway system at Oil Berth No. 13 is expected to offer several benefits:

• Enhanced Safety: The use of modern gangway systems will improve safety during crew transfers, particularly when handling hazardous materials like LPG. Spark-proof and intrinsically safe designs will minimize risks associated with flammable substances.
• Operational Efficiency: A well-designed telescopic gangway system will facilitate smoother loading and unloading operations, thereby increasing the overall efficiency of port activities. This can lead to reduced turnaround times for vessels, enhancing productivity.
• Improved Accessibility: These systems allow for easier access to ships, accommodating various vessel sizes and tidal conditions. This ensures that personnel can embark and disembark safely and efficiently.
• Competitive Edge: Modern infrastructure, including advanced gangway systems, can attract more shipping lines to the port, boosting its competitiveness in the region and supporting the overall growth of the local economy.

A Call for Standardization and Transparency

The absence of clear specifications in NMPT’s tender raises concerns over whether the port will achieve the best possible outcome. Without specifying the type of gangway system or minimum quality standards, there is a risk that contractors may offer lower-quality solutions, which could undermine the port’s modernization efforts.

Furthermore, stakeholders, including the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) and the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW), should push for standardization in port infrastructure tenders. The adoption of international best practices would ensure that investments are directed towards modern, efficient, and safe systems, helping Indian ports compete globally.

As the New Mangalore Port Authority moves forward with the installation of the telescopic gangway system, it is critical for all stakeholders to recognize the importance of safety, transparency, and proper financial frameworks. Without these elements, the potential for successful modernization could be compromised, limiting the port’s capability to handle hazardous materials safely and efficiently. The time for action is now, ensuring that all future projects adhere to global standards and best practices for the benefit of India’s maritime industry.

Types of Telescopic Gangway Systems for Oil Berths

When it comes to Oil Berths, especially handling volatile cargo like LPG, telescopic gangway systems must be designed with special attention to safety, reliability, and flexibility. Here are the main types of telescopic gangway systems used globally:

1. Hydraulic Telescopic Gangway Systems:
   • Operation: These systems use hydraulic mechanisms for smooth extension and retraction. The system adjusts automatically to different heights and angles, ensuring safe access to the vessels.
   • Application: Ideal for oil and gas berths due to their robustness and ability to handle heavy-duty operations.
   • Latest Technology: Features like remote-controlled operation and automated hydraulic systems with real-time monitoring have made these systems more efficient.
2. Electro-Mechanical Telescopic Gangway Systems:
   • Operation: These systems rely on electric motors for movement. They are less maintenance-intensive compared to hydraulic systems but offer less power when handling large vessels or heavy loads.
   • Application: Commonly used in terminals handling smaller vessels or ports that require moderate power and efficiency.
3. Articulated Telescopic Gangways:
   • Operation: These gangways have multiple joints that allow them to pivot and extend, providing better flexibility when handling different vessel heights and tidal conditions.
   • Application: Particularly useful for ports with varied vessel traffic, as they can handle both small and large ships effectively.
4. Mobile Telescopic Gangways:
   • Operation: These systems can be moved along the berth to cater to different vessels. They offer high flexibility but require additional space and infrastructure.
   • Application: These are commonly used in large oil and gas terminals that handle vessels of various sizes.

Latest Technology-Based Telescopic Gangway Systems for Oil Berths

Modern telescopic gangway systems incorporate advanced technologies that enhance safety, efficiency, and automation. Here are some of the latest technologies used in telescopic gangway systems for oil berths:

1. Automated Telescopic Gangways:
   • Features: Fully automated with height-adjustment sensors that respond to tidal movements and vessel heights. These systems ensure that the gangway is always positioned correctly without human intervention.
   • Benefits: Reduces manual labor, minimizes errors, and increases operational safety, especially when handling hazardous cargo like LPG.
2. Spark-Proof and Intrinsically Safe Systems:
   • Requirement: For oil and LPG berths, the gangway and all associated equipment must be spark-proof to prevent ignition. This means using materials that do not generate sparks under friction and ensuring all electronic components are intrinsically safe.
   • Benefits: Essential for safe operation in hazardous environments, preventing fires or explosions.
3. Self-Leveling Systems:
   • Features: Automatically adjusts to changes in ship levels due to loading and unloading, waves, or tides. These systems can continuously monitor and adjust the gangway to ensure a safe and steady connection between the ship and shore.
   • Benefits: Enhances safety, reduces downtime, and ensures smoother operations.
4. Real-Time Monitoring and Diagnostics:
   • Features: Advanced gangway systems are equipped with real-time monitoring tools that provide operators with continuous data on gangway positioning, wear and tear, and potential faults.
   • Benefits: Early detection of issues reduces downtime, improves maintenance efficiency, and enhances operational safety.
5. Energy-Efficient Systems:
   • Features: Some telescopic gangways now incorporate energy recovery systems that store energy generated during retraction for future use. Additionally, these systems use lightweight materials like aluminum alloys that reduce energy consumption during operation.
   • Benefits: Reduces overall energy usage, lowering operational costs and minimizing the environmental footprint of the port.

Key Specifications to Consider When Installing a Telescopic Gangway System for Oil Berths

When planning to install a telescopic gangway system for handling LPG and other hazardous materials, several critical specifications must be considered:

1. Material:
   • The gangway must be constructed from spark-proof materials such as aluminum or stainless steel to prevent accidental ignition during operations.
2. Load Capacity:
   • The gangway must be designed to handle the required load, including personnel and equipment, while ensuring that the materials used are corrosion-resistant due to exposure to harsh marine environments.
3. Automation and Adjustability:
   • Systems should feature automated height adjustments to accommodate varying ship sizes and tidal changes, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
4. Safety Features:
   • Ensure compliance with international safety standards like SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) and include features like anti-slip surfaces, safety rails, emergency shutoff systems, and real-time monitoring for potential risks.
5. Intrinsically Safe Electrical Components:
   • The system should be equipped with intrinsically safe electronics and automation tools that prevent any risk of sparks, critical when handling highly flammable substances like LPG.
6. Compliance with International Standards:
   • The design of the telescopic gangway system should be approved by an independent international classification agency such as IRS, BV, or DNV, or any classification society that is a member of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS).

The installation of a modern telescopic gangway system at oil berths, especially for handling hazardous materials like LPG, is a significant undertaking that requires careful consideration of the latest technologies and safety standards. Ports must ensure they adopt advanced, spark-proof systems that are automated, safe, and compliant with international regulations to minimize risks and improve operational efficiency.