Heavy lift shipping specialist Jumbo Maritime has secured permission for its K-class vessel Fairmaster to enter the lock leading to the Indira Dock at the Port of Mumbai, a significant development for oversized cargo handling during the monsoon season.

Previously, vessels of the Fairmaster’s size were restricted from accessing the Indira Dock during the monsoon months due to weather limitations. However, thanks to collaborative efforts and innovative thinking by the Mumbai Port Authority’s Harbour Master and team, a solution has been devised.

Navigating tight quarters for monsoon maneuvering

The Indira Dock offers a more sheltered environment compared to the open harbour, making it a safer option for cargo handling during the monsoon season. However, navigating the entrance lock presents a challenge, as its dimensions (228.6 meters long and 30.5 meters wide) create a tight fit for the Fairmaster.

The Fairmaster, with a beam (hull width) of 27.74 meters, represents a near-perfect fit for the lock, allowing for safe passage during daylight hours. This access paves the way for Jumbo to continue serving its clients in Mumbai throughout the monsoon season, regardless of weather conditions.

The Fairmaster, a member of Jumbo’s K-class family, boasts an impressive lifting capacity. Its two 1,500-tonne cranes can combine to handle a staggering 3,000 tonnes of cargo. Additionally, the vessel offers a 14,000-tonne deadweight capacity, a 21,000-cubic-meter cargo hold, and a spacious 3,250-square-meter free deck area, making it ideal for the transport of a wide range of project cargo.

“We are extremely grateful to the Mumbai Port Authority’s Harbour Master and team for their flexibility and creative approach,” Jumbo Maritime said in its brief social media statement.