SIR CREEK TO DWARKA-251 Dwarka General information. The Dwarka town (22º14'.7 N, 68º 58'.7 E), standing near the SW end of the Okhamandal Peninsula. It is an important place of Hindu pilgrimage. Gomti Nadi. Through Gomti Creek enters the sea, 5 cables SE of Dwarka Point Lighthouse (22º 14'.3 N, 68º 57'.5 E), near an old temple which has a dark appearance and which is washed by the sea at high water. Landing. Landing can be effected on a steep sandy beach close W of the entrance to Gomti Creek; however, a swell from S raises too much surf here and boats should then proceed into RupenBandar, 1½ miles NNW. Anchorage. Large vessels can anchor with Dwarkanath Temple (22º 14'.2 N, 68º 58'.l E) bearing 069º distant 1½ miles in depths of about 21 m, sand and rock. Caution. Several vessels have lost anchors when anchored in this vicinity. Conspicuous Object.There are two conspicuous objects along the coast Dwarka point light house and a TV tower which is located 1mile North of Dwarka point light house. Kachchigadh General information. Kachchigadh (22º19'.48 N, 68º57'.16 E) lies at the S end of a shallow bay which opens NW. A fort stands close S of Kachchigadh Lighthouse (22º19'.87 N, 68º56'.92 E). Landing. Landing can be carried out comfortably on a beach N of the fort; the beach is frequented by turtle. Route The coastal route leads 20 miles NNE from a position NW of Dwarka (22º14'.62 N, 68º 57'.76 E), then 44 miles E to position N of Narara Bet. Through the SW approach and entrance to the Gulf of Kachchh; the deep-water route extends to Vadinar Offshore Terminal (22º30'.56 N, 69º 42'.07 E); as shown on the chart. General information. Vessels, except those constrained by their draught, should as far as possible avoid using the Deep-water route by keeping N of the route and passing S of Ranwara Shoals, as described below. Fairways Fairway 1 The route of 50 miles from Porbandar to Dwarka is defined by a safety fairway with depths of 60m to 25m. The safety fairway is bounded by under mentioned co-ordinates from a position approximately 35 miles West of Porbandar to approximately 10 miles West of Dwarka. 21° 37’.20 N, 69° 01’.68 E 21° 36’.35 N, 68° 58’.97 E 22° 16’.20 N, 68° 44’.75 E 22° 16’.27 N, 68° 47’.75 E Fairway 2 The route of 30 miles is defined by a safety fairway with depths from 80 m to 25 m bounded by under mentioned co-ordinates from a position 40 miles South West of Okha Mandal to 11 miles West of Okha Mandal. 22° 03’.50 N, 68° 15’.38 E 22° 16’.27 N, 68° 44’.60 E 22° 18’.25 N, 68° 42’.80 E 22° 01’.10 N, 68° 16’.80 E Fairway 3 The route of 35 miles is defined by a safety fairway with depths of 60m to 25 m between under mentioned co-ordinates from a position 44 miles West of Okha to 10 miles West of Dwarka. 22° 16’.20 N, 68° 44’.75 E 22° 16’.27 N, 68° 47’.75 E 22° 27’.35 N, 68° 15’.23 E 22° 24’.77 N, 68° 14’.50 E Topography The Okha Mandal Peninsula NNE of Kachchigadh (22º19'.88 N, 68º56'.91 E), has a Coastline fringed with sand hills; its hinterland is very low. The coastline from Humani Point, the N point of Okha Mandal Peninsula; to Narara Bet is heavily indented with bays and fronted by numerous large reefs. Depths. Throughout this route, there is considerable variation in the depths. Tidal streams Tidal streams set E when in-going and W when out-going; at the W edge of Gurur Shoal (22º33'.28N, 69º01'.59E), these streams attain a rate of 1½ kts at neaps. Along the N face of Bural Reef (22º 30'.0N, 69º 20'.0E) the tidal stream has a rate from 4 to 6 kts. Tidal streams set 100° while inbound and 280° while outbound. These currents remain strong until one hour after peak of tide. Overfalls Depths are irregular and heavy tide-rips are experienced, between Gurur Shoal and the mainland S and SE, on each side of the intervening deep-water channel, particularly on the out-going stream. It should be noted that the sea sometimes breaks in this channel even in calm weather. In the vicinity of Chandri Reef (22º 31'.0 N, 69º 07'.54 E), Paga Reef (22º 28'.27 N, 69º 13'.18 E) and Bural Reef to the E, the uneven bottom causes overfalls and tide-rips which are particularly heavy at springs. Heavy tide-rips occur off the NE end of Bural Reef when the tidal stream is strong. Principal marks Landmarks Chimney (elevation 102 m) (22º24'.30 N, 69º00'.65 E). Aramda Beacon (22º26' N, 69º00' E) stands a 1¾ miles W of the walled town of Aramda. Water tower (elevation 89 m) (22º23'.96 N, 69º42'.82 E).For landmarks at Sikka . The following landmarks, standing on the N coast of the Gulf of Kachchh, may be visible from parts of the route: Asar Mata Temple (22º50'.41 N, 69º13'.15 E). House (22º49'.78 N, 69º16'.81 E). Tamachi Pir Tomb, which stands close E of above house. Vijay villas Palace stands close N of above tomb. Radio mast (22º52'.48 N, 69º24'.00 E). Rawal Pir Tomb (22º48'.89 N, 69º23'.43 E). Major lights: Dwarka Point Light (22º14'.30 N, 68º57'.50 E). Kachchigadh Light (22º19'.87 N, 68º56'.92 E). Humani Point Light (22º28'.6 N, 69º04'.2 E). Chhachhi Light (22º57'.21 N, 69º00'.87 E). Mandvi Light (22º49'.75 N, 69º20'.88 E). Navinal Point Light (22º44'.43 N, 69º42'.88 E). Pirothan Island NW Point Light (22º36'26 N, 69º 57'.13 E). Other navigational aids Racon (22º32'.7 N, 69º16'.2 E) at Bural Reef Lighthouse. Racon (22º49'.75 N, 69º20'.5 E) at Mandvi Lighthouse. Racon (22º30'.54 N, 69º42'.08 E) at Vadinar Offshore Terminal SBM I. Directions The route leads 20 miles NNE from a position NW of Dwarka (22º14'.68 N, 68º57'.76 E), then 44 miles E to a position N of Narara Bet, passing (with positions from Bural Reef Light (22º32'.71 N, 69º16'.19 E) WNW of a stranded wreck (21 miles SW), then to: WNW of an unnamed coastal reef with shoal patches extending about l½ miles seaward (19¾ miles WSW), then to WNW of Aramda Reefs (16¼ miles WSW), then to: Depending on draught clear of a 9.4 m shoal (l8¼ miles WSW), then to WNW of Marian Shoal (l4½ miles WSW) with Bobby Shoal lying 1 mile NE, then to clear of Gurur Shoal (14½ miles W), and ESE of Lushington Shoal (27 miles WNW) and: Humani Point (11½ miles WSW), at the N end of the Okhamandal Peninsula, forms the S entrance point of the Gulf of Kachchh; a tower stands on the point. A beacon stands on the coast 4 cables SSW of Humani Point; another beacon stands at the head of a small bay 1½ cables SSE of the same point. No 1 Buoy (starboard hand) is moored 1¾ miles NNW of the point at the extremity of shoal water in the W approaches to Okha. Then to: WNW of a dangerous wreck (11 miles W) lying in the approaches to Okha, then to WNW and N of Chandri Reef (8 miles W), which dries in places and is covered by the red sector (217º-247º) of Samiani Island Centre Light (22º 29'.31 N, 69º 05'.23 E). Then to Clear of an obstruction (3¾ miles N), and: S of Ranwara Shoals (10½ miles NNW); these two rocky shoals cover an extensive area with depths of 10 m or less, as shown on the chart, the sea always breaks over the SE shoal. Ranwara Light-buoy (port hand) is moored off the SW side of the SE shoal. Then to N of Bural Reef (Chank Reef) (extending 9 miles E), a large coral reef which is steep-to on its N side; the reef dries and it supports several islands. Then to clear of Investigator Reef (16 miles ENE) which lies, near the middle of the gulf, just S of the deep-water route. Then to N of Kalubhar reef. Karumbhar Reef ( 20 miles ESE), and to a position N of Narara Bet an islet with a clump of trees, fronted by sand, which separates Pathfinder Inlet and Sikka Creek; the islet is joined to the mainland S by a mangrove swamp and surrounded N by Narara Reef. Deep-water route Caution. Reports are often received concerning route buoys that are missing or unlit. General information. The route is marked in accordance with IALA Maritime Buoyage System (Region A), it varies in width between 8 cables and 1¾ miles. There are controlling depths of 25 m at the beginning of the route, NW of Kachchigadh light, and 23 m NNE of Okha Point (22º 28'.44 N, 69º 05'.01 E); however, vessels should take into account possible changes which may have taken place due to meteorological or other effects since the last survey. Directions. In the vicinity of position 22º 21'.0N, 68º 49'.0 E, the route is entered, about 7 miles WNW of Kachchigadh Light; it leads NNE between Lushington Shoal (22º37'.76 N, 68º47'.13 E) and Gurur Shoals , 13 miles ESE, and then to E into the gulf, passing S of Ranwara Shoals (22º42'.0 N, 69º19'.0 E) and N of Investigator Reef (22º 35'.54 N, 69º 33'.39 E) . Under keel clearance. While proceeding at their normal service speed, deep draught vessels must allow a minimum under keel clearance of 20% of their draught. At reduced speed, the clearance in calm weather may be reduced to 15%; but if an appreciable sea or swell is running a 20% clearance must be allowed. Particular care should be taken where the chart indicates critical depths in the route and the vessels individual squat calculation applied. The alignment (171º) of the following marks leads W of Gurur Shoal (22º 33'.28 N, 69º 01'.59 E) and E of Lushington Shoal (22º 37'.76 N, 68º 47'.13 E): Kachchigadh Fort (22º 19'.56 N, 68º 57'.17 E) and Dwarkanath Temple (22º 14'.26 N, 68º 58'.05 E). For vessels passing S of Gurur Shoal, Samiani Island Centre Lighthouse (22º 29'.31 N, 69º 05'.23 E) bearing between 092º and 103º passes S of Gurur Shoal and N of Marian Shoal, in a depth of not less than 11.3 m; note that Bobby Shoal, and other isolated patches, lie from 3 to 4½ miles W of the lighthouse between these bearings. Useful marks Mojap Beacon (22º 21'.44 N, 68º 57'.81 E) a black masonry structure stands near a sandhill, about 30 m high, with bushes on it. Mithapur Light 50 m in height) (22º24'.42 N, 69º00'.67 E) stands close NE of a conspicuous chimney. Samiani Island Centre Light (22º 29'.31 N, 69º 05'.23 E). Samiani Island North Light (white masonry tower, black bands, 10 m in height) (22º 29'.50 N, 69º 05'.47 E) stands at the NE end of a drying reef extending NE from the island. Bural Reef Light (white round tower, 12 m in height) (22º 32'.71 N, 69º 16'.19 E) stands near the NW extremity of Bural Reef. Chank Tapu Light (white 4-sided concrete tower, black bands) (22º 32'.90 N, 69º 24'.57 E) stands near the NE extremity of Bural Reef. Kalubhar Tapu Light (white round stone tower, 20 m in height) (22º 26'.32 N, 69º 35'.23 E) stands at the W end of Kaubhar Tapu from where the reef extends about 1¼ miles offshore. OKHA The port of Okha (22º 28'.28 N, 69º 05'.02 E) lies between the North end of Okha Mandal Peninsula and Bet Shankhodhar (1 mile SE). It is situated at the mouth of the Gulf of Kutch at the North West corner of the Saurashtra peninsula, about 323 mile from Mumbai. It is a port endowed with a natural harbour, providing shelter throughout the year. The town of Okha is situated close W of the port. Okha is an all-weather port with direct berthing roadstead working facilities. The working season is all round the year owing to the sheltered harbour and scanty rainfall with favorable weather conditions. The chief exports mainly comprise bauxite and onion where as the main imports are coal and limestone. The port also handles coastal cargo like Pet Coke and Calcium. Approach and entry The approach to the port is from NW passing N of Samiani Shoal, and is entered between Samiani Island North Light (22º29'.50 N, 69º05'.47 E) and the shoal ground extending NNW from Bet Shankhodhar. Controlling depths Minimum depth available at the main berth is 8 m. Deepest and longest berth Sayaji Pier is the longest berth of 180 m length and has 8 m draught alongside. Mean tidal levels Mean spring range about 3.0 m; mean neap range about 1.6 m. See information in Indian Tide Tables. Local weather The climate of Okha Mandal is salubrious and bracing. In summer it is particularly pleasant because of the cool sea breezes. Strong NE winds adversely affect the working of cargo on vessels lying at anchor off the port. A confused sea often occurs during periods of strong winds, at high water springs over the shallow ground lying NW of Padmatirth Point (22º 27'.6 N, 69º 05'.6 E). Maximum and Minimum temperature recorded in the area is 36°C and 16°C respectively. Anchorages General. A vessel up to draught of 7.5 m may obtain anchorage in the outer roadstead 2.4 km offshore , as shown on the chart, with Samiyani Island Lighthouse(22º 29'.31 N, 69º 05'.23 E) bearing 171º distant 1¼ miles in depths of about 12m, sand and broken shell. Pilots and tugs Pilotage. For merchant vessels pilotage is compulsory; the pilot boarding place is situated about 1¼ miles NNW of Samiani Island Lighthouse at position (22°30'.64 N, 69°04'.69 E). The pilot boards during daylight hours 1½ hours before high water, or at low water, during the NE monsoon; and 30 minutes before high water or 1½ hours before low water during the SW monsoon. Two tugs Rukmani and Gopnath of 1600 BHP/ 30 BP each are available from 0700 to 1900 hrs and can be contacted on VHF CH 16/14. Requesting authority for tugs is Port Officer, Gujarat Maritime Board, Okha. Local knowledge. To navigate through the channel which leads from W between Samiani Shoal and Humani Point; and for the channel leading SSW between Samiani Shoal and Samiani Island, local knowledge is considered essential. Storm Signals. Storm signals are displayed from the port flagstaff standing close WNW of Okha Point by hoisting portable shapes on mast in day time and lights in night. Tidal streams Current. The tide sets NNE on the flood and SSW on the ebb. Vessels should be careful to keep clear off No.1 buoy against strong set towards this buoy is experienced during the flood tide Channel W of Okha. In the channel between Samiani Shoal and Humani Point, tidal streams set ESE on the in-going stream and WNW on the out-going; a rate of 3½ kts is attained at neaps. North of Samiyani Island. The streams between North of Samiyani Island and Chandri Reef, 2½ miles NE, set SE on the in-going and WNW on the out-going; the in-going stream attains a rate of 3 kts at springs and the out-going 2 kts at neaps. West of Samiyani Island, the in-going stream sets NE and the out-going SW, at rates of 1¾ kts at neaps; SE of the island the reverse is the case. South end of Samiyani Island. The in-going stream, around South end of Samiyani Island sets strongly S and E and then to S through the harbour curving towards E round the S end of Bet Shankhodhar with a rate of 1¼ to 1½ kts at neaps and 2 kts at springs. The out-going stream, coming from E round the S end of Bet Shankhodhar, reaches shoal water NW of Padmatirth Point (22º 27'.70 N, 69º 05'.58 E) and here divides into two streams; one setting along the W side of the harbour and W of Samiyani Island and the other N and NE between Samiyani Island the N part of Bet Shankhodhar; then to it sets WNW to the N of Samiyani Island. This out-going stream has a rate of 1¼ kts at neaps. Okha harbour. At springs, strong eddies form in the harbour with the in-going and out-going streams, also a strong undertow occurs at the anchorage off Okha Point. Caution. There is a strong race N and S of Samiyani Island, except at slack water and as tidal streams on each side of this island are fairly slack a vessel may take a sheer when entering or leaving the race; there is also a heavy tide-rip on all the shoals especially on the out-going stream. Landmarks Okha Light (square masonry tower, red and white bands, 23 m in height) (22º 28'.6 N, 69º 04'.2 E). Two radio masts standing close SSW of the light are marked by fixed red lights. 2 Samiyani Island Light (white round stone tower, 20m in height) (22º 29'.31 N, 69º 05'.23 E) stands near the centre of Silmigni Island; a tomb, with a spire, stands on a small mound close NNE of the light. Directions Approach channel A course should be shaped for the pilot boarding place or the outer anchorage from a position in deep-water N of Humani Point (22º 28'.61 N, 69º 04'.19 E), thereafter for the harbour entrance, giving due attention to the following off-lying dangers (with positions from Samiani Island Centre Light (22º 29'.31 N, 69º 05'.23 E); A wreck (1¾ miles NNW), with a depth of 5m over it. A dangerous wreck (1½ miles NNW) lies close SSE of a 9.1m shoal patch and 2½ cables N of the pilot boarding position. Samiyani Shoal (extends 2 miles NW), which dries in parts, is marked near its NW and SE ends, respectively, by No 1 Buoy (starboard hand). Chandri Reef (2½ miles NE) has shoal patches extending 1¾ Miles W; No 1 buoy (port hand) is moored near the W end of the shoal patches. Isolated shoal patches lie in the channel between Samiyani Shoal and the shoal patches extending W from Chandri Reef. Chandri Rock (1½ miles ENE). Useful marks Okha Point (22º28'.44 N, 69º05'.01 E) is low and sandy with the port flagstaff and a rest house standing close W. Padmatirth Point (22º27'.70 N, 69º05'.58 E) a small bluff tableland that forms the NW extremity of Bet Shankhodhar Island; the point becomes an islet at high water springs. A small white-domed mosque stands on the point with a flagstaff ½ cable SSE; a white domed tomb stands 7½ cables E of the point. Bet Shankhodhar Island Beacons (22º28'.12 N, 69º07'.00 E); a number of beacons stand in this vicinity; their positions are shown on the chart. Okha VTMS tower is a round concrete tower with red and white bands in position 22º 28'.61 N 69º04'.16 E and height 75 m. Okha Mandal town is situated about 5 cables S of Padmatirth Point; it has many temples and shrines of Lord Krishna. Dwarkadhish Temple, a large square building near the centre of the town, is very prominent. A small landing place, Beyt jetty, is situated on the shore close SW of Dwarkadhish Temple; nearby more imposing buildings, to house pilgrims, stand in contrast with the stone and mud houses of the rest of the town. Port operation. The Port is operated by the port officer, Okha. A GMB office and fishery office are also available on the island. The movement of the passenger ferry boats and fishing boats is controlled by Gujarat Maritime Board and fishery officials. Anchorages in Pindara Bay Merodi Bet. Small vessel may obtain anchorage about 5 cables E of Merodi Bet and also on its W side in depths from 11 to 16.5 m, mud; it is well sheltered from all winds but local knowledge is required before approaching the anchorage. Ajad Tapu. Small vessels with a shallow draught can anchorage off the SE side of Ajad Tapu; to approach the anchorage local knowledge is required. Anchorages and shelter off Bural Reef West side. Anchorage can be obtained for small vessels close W of the NW edge of Bural Reef in depths of 7 m, mud; as shown on the chart. Care should be taken to avoid shoes extending NW and SW from the NW edge of the reef. East side. Vessels can obtain a good shelter on the E and SE sides of Bural Reef from W winds; vessels anchoring off these sides must take care to avoid Bubasir Rock, (22º30'.48 N, 69º 26'.22 E) which lies off the E side of the reef. When taking shelter for a single tide vessels may anchor, at the edge of shoal soundings, with the trees on Chank Tapu bearing 271º distant about 2 miles, in depths of 15 m, mud; or farther SE, E of Bubasir Rock, with the trees bearing 293º distant about 3 miles, in depths of 12 m. At the latter anchorage the out-going stream sets NW and the in-going SE. There are two anchorages, as shown on the chart, 2¼ and 3 miles SE of Chank Tapu in depths of about 6 and 8 m respectively, mud. Shelter. During the SW monsoon, large local vessels seek shelter in the lee of Chank Tapu. Directions. While proceeding to anchor on the E side of Bural Reef, and passing N of it, keep a good lookout for the trees on Nora Tapu and Chank Tapu and give these islands a berth of at least 3 miles. Mitha Port Mitha Port is located inland in position 22°46'.02N, 69°42'.13E. The port is controlled by GMB. The port does not have any support facilities and is generally used by the shallow draught dhows. Mashuri Creek Mashuri Creek (22º34'.0 N, 69º55'.77 E) lies on the E side of Dide ka Bet and enters the gulf 2½ miles N. Anchorage may be found by small craft in depths of about 8 m, mud, near the mouth of the creek. It would be unwise to enter the creek until about 2 hours after high water, at which time the edge of the reef dries; some rocky patches lie about 7½ cables within its entrance. Local knowledge is required for anchoring. Godia Creek General Information. Godia Creek (23º14' N, 68º35' E) is entered between low-lying sandy points. It can be identified by Luna Bet Beacon standing on its NW side and, by two beacons standing on its SE side with Bari Beacon a farther 2½ miles SE. This generally shallow creek has an entrance channel across the bar, about 2 cables wide, with deep-water in its centerline; there are drying banks lying on each side of the channel, the entrance and the creek. The bar, which extends about 1 mile seaward, has a least charted depth of 1.5 m; a pool, with a charted depth of 9.9 m, lies 1 mile within the entrance. From the pool, the creek shallows rapidly and extends about 2 miles East, at which point it curves North. Kharod Nadi to Sir Mouth The route leads 82 miles WNW from a position SSW of the mouth of Kharod Nadi (22º 50'.18 N, 69º 13'.63 E) to a position SSW of Sir Mouth, passing (with positions from Jakhau Light. NNE of Lushington Shoal (37 miles SSE), then to: NNE of a dangerous wreck (29 miles SSE), position approximate, then to SSW of a stranded wreck (11 miles SE), then to: SSW of Dutt Shoal (4 miles SSW), and: Clear of a shoal patch (18½ miles SW), then to SSW of a shoal area with a least charted depth over it of 1.8 m (17 miles WNW), which extends seaward from the SE entrance point of Kori Creek. Then to a dangerous wreck which lies 1 mile NW. Then to a position SSW of Sir Mouth. Topography The coast of the Kachchh District, between Kharod Nadi and the entrance to Godia Creek, 44 miles WNW, is low and fronted by a narrow sandy ridge about 9 m high. Several small rivers enter the sea along this stretch of coast and, except for a large swamp 28 miles WNW of entrance to Kharod Nadi, there are many villages standing on well-cultivated land. The coast, from the entrance of Godia Creek to the E bank of Kori Creek; 15 miles NW, is low and much indented with creeks, the mouths of which are shallow and can only be used by boats; a shallow coastal bank extends up to about 9 miles offshore in places. Depths There are no known dangers off this stretch of coast of the charted depth contour of 10 m, except for Lushington Shoal (22º37'.76 N, 68º47'.13 E) and a shoal patch with a depth of 9.5 m over it, lie in position 23º00'.5N, 68º23'.0E. However, within the 5 m depth contour there are several shoal patches, some of which dry, and a number of isolated dangerous rocks; most of these dangers lie within ½ miles of the shore. There are a number of drying sandbanks, between the E bank of Kori Creek (23º31'.22 N, 68º19'.67 E) and Sir Mouth; 23 miles WNW, lying off the creek and the Indus Delta. Tidal Streams The tidal streams between Kharod Nadi and Godia Creek generally run parallel to the line of the coast, the In-going stream setting ESE and the out-going WNW; NW of Godia Creek the in-going stream sets E towards the coast at a rate of about 1 kts and the out-going stream sets seaward. Principal Marks Landmarks. Asar Mata Temple (22º50'.41 N, 69º13'.15 E). Dholo Pir Dome (22º55'.33 N, 69º03'.61 E). Radio mast (23º 14'.99 N, 68º 48'.92 E), a red obstruction light is exhibited. Major lights. Mandvi Light (22º 49'.75 N, 69º 20'.88 E). Chhachhi Light (white masonry tower, black bands, 27 m in height) (22º 57'.21 N, 69º 00'.87 E) is fitted with a radar reflector. Jakhau Light (white round concrete tower, red bands, 41 m in height) (23º 14'.36 N, 68º 36'.42 E), stands within the entrance to Godia Creek on its S side. Kajhar Creek Light (23º 44'.4 N, 68º 03'.9 E) . Useful mark. Maniyara Hill (23º28'.25 N, 68º37'.09 E), on the summit of which stands a fort at an elevation of 67 m. Anchorages General anchorage. Vessels may be obtained anchorages with good holding ground, generally in mud; can be obtained in depths of about 12 m from 4 to 5 miles offshore between Asar Mata Temple (22º50' N, 69º13' E) and Godia Creek, 44 miles WNW. Jakhau Harbour General information. Jakhau Harbour (23º 12'.97 N, 68º 33'.03 E), is an open roadstead situated on the outer side of the bar SW of the entrance to Godia Creek. The town Jakhau is located inland, about 9 miles E of the harbour. Small vessels use the harbour for loading salt during the fair weather season from October to January. Jakhau is a fair weather Port situated on the NW coast of Katch about 120km from Bhuj. The Port is located about 12 km away from Jakhau village. Weather. The port observes off season from 15 may to 15 September every year. Due to monsoon and rough sea conditions, the working of the Port remains suspended during the above period. Port authority. The port is under the authority The Port Officer, Jakhau Port Authority, Mandvi, Gujarat State, India. Storm signals are displayed at Jakhau Harbour by using the brief system . Landmarks. Jakhau Light (23º14'.36 N, 68º36'.43 E). Directions. Because of the nature of the coast, little is visible until a vessel approaches the charted 10 m depth contour; at night, or in thick weather, a vessel should not proceed closer inshore until its navigational position has been verified. Anchorage. Vessels using Jakhau Harbour, may anchor comfortably about 5 miles SW of the entrance to Godia Creek in a depth of 9 m, mud and fine sand; as shown on the chart. The anchor point for this Port is about 7.5 miles from Port, SW of entrance to Godia Creek. Only one steamer can work at a time at this Port. Barge berth. A jetty, 2½ miles ENE of the entrance to Godia Creek, is used to load barges for vessels at the anchorage. Facility the port has a wharf of 1260 m length and width 4.5 m. The backup area is 3,10,000 Sq m. The shippers manage the handling of cargo on the steamers themselves. The cargo is handled in steamers at the anchorage at the distance of about 7.5 mile. Sailing vessels and lighters can work directly at the Jetty during High tide and Low tide. Transportation. The nearest railway station is Naliya, which is 28 km away from Jakhau Port. Jakhau port is well connected with State Highway. National Highway 8-A extension is 27 km from the Port. Nearest Airport is Bhuj, at a distance of 120km. Sanghi Jetty (Kharo Creek) Sanghi jetty (23°22'.4N, 68°34'.4E) falls under Jakhu port limits and lies inside Northern arm of Kharo creek. The principal function of jetty is handling inward/outward cargo Cement, Clinker, Gypsum and Coal. Sanghi Port is an all-weather direct berthing cement clinker jetty dedicated to ocean going vessels. It is situated in the Kharo Creek. The navigational channel is clearly marked with lighted buoys for day and night navigation. Other than Sanghi Ultra Tech and ABG jetties are located nearby. Approach Channel. The jetty can be approached, through a 9.4 mile length and 100 m width buoyed channel from the fairway buoy (23°13'.87N, 68° 28'.99E), by small crafts, barges and vessel having draught of 2-3 m. The channel is marked with 12 sets of buoys. The topography on either side of the channel is predominantly mud flats with mangrove vegetation. Navigable water is confined to the centre of the channel. The general depth in the channel is about 3-10 m. At the mouth of the channel the maximum depth is 3-4 m. Caution. The depth in the channel and the banks are liable to change. The traffic inbound/outbound from neighboring Jaypee Captive jetty should also be accounted for whilst navigating. Depth is required to be constantly monitored for shoal depths during the entire passage of the creek. Local knowledge of the area is considered essential whilst navigating within the channel. Whenever a vessel is making approach on the jetty due regards to be given to the current and the shallow depths on the southern end of the jetty. ETA. Vessels are required to pass ETA at least 96 hrs in advance and update the same at 72 hrs, 48 hrs and 12 hrs prior to arrival. Pilotage not compulsory as the channel is fully marked with buoys. Only mini Bulk Vessel of max GRT 3000 and Barges with max GRT 2000 are berthed alongside the jetty. Berths. Four berths with a total quay length of 204 m is available. Landmarks. Sanghi Cement factory (23°22'.69 N, 68° 34'.25 E) Tugs and Boat. One in no Twin Screw tug boat of 10 ton bollard pull is available around the clock on request. Tidal levels. Mean tidal levels. Mean spring range about 3.78 in; mean neap range about 1.01 m. See information in Indian Tide Tables. Anchorage. Anchorage may be obtained at 10 miles W of Jakhau Light House and SW of Kharo Creek in position (2311'.0 N, 68°26'.0 E) with available depth of 10.5 m. Jakhau Light House (23°14'.36 N, 68° 36'.43 E) is a 45 m High RCC circular tower with Red and White bands. Landing Facility. (a) RCC open piled Jetty is available with 204 m LOA and 23 m wide. It is used for loading cement/clinker. The depth alongside the jetty is 8-10 m. (b) Approach to RCC open piled Jetty for pass-way cement clinker with 635 m LOA and 8 m width. This jetty consists of 09 fabricated steel bollards with panel type fenders. 15 Limitation. Up to 3.5 m draft of vessel for entry and exist during high tide. Fax No. +91-02831 274171/274115 Mobile: +91 9925163015 Jaypee Captive jetty General information. Jaypee Captive jetty (23°19'.8 N, 68° 37'.4 E) is located due east of Kharo creek. The dimension of the jetty is 220 m by 13 m and the lay is (000° -180°). The depth alongside is 2.2-3.5 m. The greatest depth alongside is 2.2 – 3.5 m. the general depth in the channel is about 4.5 m. at the mouth of the channel the max depth is 12.9. The jetty can be approached by small crafts, barges, having a draft of 2-3 m. the channel is marked by fibre reinforced buoys. Flat marshy land with mangroves surrounds the channel on either side. The area adjacent to the channel is liable to flood during flood tide thus makes it difficult to appreciate shallow patches and sand banks without local guidance. Caution. The depth in the channel and the banks are liable to change. The traffic inbound/outbound from Shangi jetty should also be accounted for whilst navigating through the channel. On entering the channel there is no point of return. Depth is required to be constantly monitored for shoal depths during the entire passage of the creek. Local knowledge. The local knowledge of the area around the Jaypee Captive jetty is most essential whilst navigating within the channel. However the new charts of the area published by NHO can be relied upon if local knowledge is unavailable. Description. At the mouth of the Kharo Creek, an 800 m wide sand bar lying North East-South West direction restricts the navigation through the mouth except for the 400 m wide channel marked by buoys leading from the South end of the Kharo Creek mouth towards North into the Creek. The Eastern arm of the Kharo creek leading to the Jaypee Captive Jetty is about four nautical miles long. The channel has a maximum width of 6.5 cables. The channel narrows due East with 2nd set of bouys 180 m apart and 3rd set of buoys 120 m apart. A shallow sand bank of one nautical mile length and six cables wide lies on the port side (North) of the narrow channel from the 3rd to 7th set of buoys. It is pertinent to mention that a 180 m wide channel bifurcates and runs parallel to the main channel from 3rd to 7th set of buoys on the northern side of the sand bank with maximum depth of 5.5 m before merging back into the main channel. The width decreases and narrows down to one cable whilst approaching the jetty. Navigable waters are confined to the port side of the channel as it leads to the jetty. South of Jaypee Captive Jetty a narrow Creek passes between mangroves in SSW direction joining the Godia (kherla) Creek. The creek can be used for navigation only during High Waters under local guidance. 4 Conspicuous objects. Radar Tower in position 23º 14'.4 N, 68º 36'.4 E Flood Light Tower in position 23º 20'.2 N, 68º 37'.6 E Flood Light Tower in position 23º 19'.9 N, 68º 37'.4 E 5 Approach. Whenever a vessel is making approach on the jetty due consideration be given to the shallow depths on the Southern part of the jetty. Kori Creek Kori Creek (23º 31'.22 N, 68º 19'.67 E), now one of the outlets of the Rann of Kachchh, was once one of the mouths of the Indus River. A shallow bar fronted the entrance to the creek but it can be navigated by local craft as far as Lakhpat, 28 miles within the entrance. The channel and banks are liable to constant changes. Local knowledge of the area is necessary before closing and entering Kori Creek. Kori Creek is about 5 miles wide at the entrance; it is blocked by several sandbanks except on its E side where a deep-water channel leads, between off-lying sandbanks and the shore, into the creek. Depths. The bar, of which the outer edge is more than 10 miles seaward of the entrance, is about 7 miles across with depths from 0.1 to 3.2 m. Within the bar a channel, reducing from about 2½ miles to 5 cables wide with depths from 5.3 to 18.0 m, leads through the creek for a distance of about 12 miles; then to the width of the channel is reduced, and subsequently divided, by sandbanks. Navigational Aids. Koteshwar Light, (23°40'.44 N, 68°31'.64 E) (White RCC tower black bands), exhibits 8 cables S from Koteshwar temple. Tidal streams. In the estuary of Kori Creek tidal streams are strong, attaining a rate of 5 kn at springs and 3 kn at neaps. The in-going stream sets up the channel of the creek until about 1½ hour before high water when it sweeps over the sandbanks in the entrance; the in-going stream also sets into the bay N of Kori Creek. The out-going stream sets SW and S. Landmark. Koteshwar Temple (23º 41'.28 N, 68º 31'.60 E); Approach aspect. When a vessel is in depths of more than 5 m off Kori Creek the low land, being about 10 miles distant, is generally not seen save in the clearest weather when low hills will be visible. Useful mark. Stranded wreck (23º30'.3 N, 68º20'.3 E). Stranded wreck (23º34'.03 N, 68º12'.99 E). Sir Creek Sir Creek (Sir River) enters the sea about 100 miles SE of Karachi and is the approximate boundary between India and Pakistan. The Swatch is a remarkable submarine valley, from about 3 to 8 miles wide, extending about 52 miles SSW from approximately 23°40’N., 67°27’E. It is a useful navigational aid for vessels equipped with sonic depth finders, and navigating between Karachi and Bombay. The Swatch has depths of less than 183m on either side of it, and with depths exceeding 1,097m at its SW end. It is almost regular in shape and has steep sides and a flat sloping bottom. The bottom and sides of The Swatch consist of soft, gray mud, with some sand and gravel on its NW edge.