NOVELTY - The apparatus (1) has a set of flexible modular elements (5a-5e) connecting a flexible base (2) and a surface structure (6). A set of connecting rings (12a-12d) connects the surface structure, the base and the modular elements to each other. A set of anchoring units (3a-3g) is provided for anchoring with the base. A set of vertical lines (11a-11g) extends among the surface structure, the modular elements, the base and the anchoring units for anchoring the base. A set of reinforcing elements extends between the connecting rings located on ends of the modular elements.    USE - Chimney-type tubular apparatus for transporting fluid e.g. oil such as fuel and petroleum, from shipwrecks, sunken oil tankers and underwater wells, and cold sea water in a body of water such as ocean and lake, during ocean thermal energy conversion process (all claimed). Can also be used for a seawater-based air conditioning (SWAC) process and a natural gas liquefaction process.    ADVANTAGE - The apparatus is made of multiple modular elements, thus ensuring versatile in applications at different depths. The apparatus ensures that components of the apparatus can be manufactured simultaneously by multiple suppliers, thus reducing manufacturing time and cost. The apparatus ensures larger diameter of a vertical column formed by the base and the modular elements, so as to minimize formation of crystals, thus preventing leakage of fluids.    DETAILED DESCRIPTION - The flexible modular elements and the flexible base are made of flexible material such as fabric. The reinforcing elements are synthetic ropes. INDEPENDENT CLAIMS are also included for the following:    (1) a method for transporting cold water during ocean thermal energy conversion process    (2) a system for generating renewable energy.    DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING(S) - The drawing shows a schematic view of a chimney-type tubular apparatus in operation.    Chimney-type tubular apparatus (1)    Flexible base (2)    Anchoring units (3a-3g)    Flexible modular elements (5a-5e)    Surface structure (6)    Vertical lines (11a-11g)    Connecting rings (12a-12d)