ITD Cementation: Offshore Construction Challenges in Udangudi Coal Berth

Details of Offshore Structure

A new port is under construction at Udangudi (district of Tuticorin) in Tamil Nadu, India to serve a Thermal Power project. The project involves creation of a 555 m long and 25 m wide berth for coal handling which is located about 8 km from the shoreline for a natural draught of around 18m to accommodate a vessel of 80,000 DWT. The berth is connected with the shoreline through a 10.1m to 18m wide and 8km long approach bridge which carries coal handling pipe conveyors and a traffic carriageway. To facilitate the fishing community, the approach bridge's design was finalized with 34 m span and 7 m air gap to let fishing vessels pass through. Construction of pile foundations in deep-sea conditions presents numerous challenges, ranging from geological complexities to the harsh marine environment. The project also includes Asia’s first offshore island breakwater to ensure tranquillity within the basin during port operations.