As Parliament’s Monsoon Session enters its fourth day, the Lok Sabha will reconvene at 2 pm to discuss the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024. This legislation aims to modernize India’s maritime framework, replacing outdated laws and enhancing seafarer welfare, coastal security, and international alignment in the shipping industry.
The Maritime Financing Summit 2025, held in New Delhi, brought together key stakeholders to explore innovative financial strategies for India’s maritime sector. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized the country’s progress, citing reduced port turnaround times and increased container capacity. The summit aimed to strengthen partnerships and enhance India’s global maritime position.
Safe Harbor Marinas has acquired Los Sueños Marina in Costa Rica, enhancing its global footprint. CEO Baxter Underwood emphasized its status as a premier sportfishing destination, attracting enthusiasts from California to the Carolinas. With 200 wet slips and luxury amenities, this acquisition reinforces Safe Harbor’s commitment to top-tier services in the marine industry.
Three Ilonggo seafarers, recently repatriated after surviving Houthi rebel attacks, are set to receive support for their mental health and economic recovery. Upon arrival at Iloilo International Airport, they were welcomed by officials who emphasized counseling and financial assistance, ensuring ongoing support as they navigate their trauma and future employment.
Interpol has officially canceled Japan’s extradition request for Paul Watson, founder of Sea Shepherd. This decision marks a significant turning point in the ongoing controversy surrounding Watson’s activism against whaling. With the red notice withdrawn, he can continue his efforts in marine conservation without the threat of arrest looming over him.
Insight and Columbia Group have formed a strategic partnership to enhance the global maritime industry with advanced IT and operational technology solutions. By leveraging SmartSea, they aim to deliver services such as cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data analytics, ultimately improving operational efficiency and resilience in maritime businesses.
The Seafarers Advice and Information Line (SAIL) has received an additional £30,000 from Trinity House, enabling the hiring of a part-time adviser. This funding will enhance support for seafarers and their families, addressing issues like debt and welfare benefits. SAIL uniquely caters to the needs of the maritime community in the UK.
German authorities are addressing a major fuel spill in Cuxhaven’s harbor after a collision between the tanker Capella and the Dutch OSV Coastal Legend. Approximately 6,000 liters of fuel leaked, creating a visible “red, oily film.” Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and containment efforts are underway to manage the situation.
The Sagarmala Scheme, launched by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, aims to boost India’s port-led development, leveraging its extensive coastline. Key initiatives include funding for port infrastructure, with Tamil Nadu receiving around Rs 9,090 million for various projects, enhancing the state’s role in global maritime trade.
Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) achieved a record freight throughput of 82.62 million tons in the 2024-25 financial year, surpassing 81.09 MT from the previous year. This growth, driven by diverse raw materials, also saw VPA’s container trade rise dramatically in global rankings. Sustainability and customer satisfaction remain key priorities for VPA.
The Goa Shipyard Limited has launched its second environmental pollution control ship, ‘Samudra Prachet,’ enhancing India’s coastal defense capabilities. Designed for rapid response to oil pollution in the Exclusive Economic Zone, this vessel supports environmental protection and advances self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
The Director General of Shipping will be renamed the Director General of Maritime Administration under the new Merchant Shipping Bill. This reform aims to enhance oversight of maritime affairs and compliance with international conventions. The Bill also proposes establishing a regulatory body for vessel security and digitizing processes to improve efficiency.
A recent report from Arendal, Norway, reveals a 25% rise in deaths among seafaring workers from 2022 to 2024 compared to previous years. Notably, suicides exceeded fatal incidents in 2024. Illnesses accounted for 83% of deaths, with stress identified as a key factor, particularly affecting younger officers.
The World Nuclear Transport Institute (WNTI) and the Nuclear Energy Maritime Organisation (Nemo) have signed a memorandum to advance nuclear-powered shipping and transportable nuclear power plants. This partnership aims to set international standards for nuclear material transport and promote clean energy solutions in maritime and remote areas, addressing urgent climate goals.
Twenty-five Scottish companies will receive £4.8 million from the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition to develop clean maritime fuels and technologies like ammonia and hydrogen. Maritime Minister Mike Kane emphasized this funding’s role in achieving net-zero shipping by 2050, promoting innovation and boosting coastal economies through sustainable practices.
