Adam Saeed, the 66-year-old captain of the Kolama boat, tragically died today after being electrocuted in the engine room. The incident occurred while en route to Huvadhu Atoll. Saeed, a lifelong seafarer, was inspecting a pump issue when he encountered an electrified area, leading to fatal injuries.
Skuld Club recently highlighted the critical risks of fatigue onboard vessels, stressing its detrimental effects on crew health and operational safety. Prolonged exertion, disrupted sleep, and high stress contribute to impaired performance and increased accident risks. To address this, Skuld advocates for adherence to IMO rest hour guidelines and improved crew wellbeing practices.
On September 1, a collision occurred off Singapore’s coast between the bunker barge Marine Dynamo and the bulk carrier Flag Gangos. A minor fuel spill was reported, but both vessels remained stable. The Marine Dynamo, operated by Chevron, experienced a spill of Marine Gas Oil, and one crew member sustained minor injuries.
The Mormugao Port Authority is launching a transformative dredging project to increase its capacity, deepening the approach channel from 14.4 to 19.5 meters for Capesize vessels. Alongside, Berth 9 will be revamped into a modern multi-cargo facility, enhancing Mormugao’s role in India’s maritime trade landscape. Construction aims to finish within 24 months.
A merchant vessel narrowly escaped an attack off Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, an area usually safe for maritime traffic. This incident followed an Israeli airstrike on Houthi leaders, raising security concerns. The crew reported a loud bang but remained unharmed, while investigations into the incident are underway.
VOC Port has commenced construction of Multi-Cargo Berth No. 10, celebrated by Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit at a groundbreaking ceremony. The berth, extending 445 meters with a draft accommodating vessels of up to 125,000 DWT, aims to bolster cargo handling capacity and strengthen the port’s pivotal role in India’s maritime sector.
Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) has made history by becoming India’s first port to engage in automobile transshipment. On August 27, 2025, it handled its inaugural shipment of 550 cars from Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, marking a significant step in enhancing operational capabilities and positioning itself as a key hub in the global trade sector.
India is rapidly transforming its electric vehicle (EV) landscape, marked by Prime Minister Modi inaugurating Maruti Suzuki’s new facility in Gujarat. This week, the first domestically produced electric cars were unveiled, set to reach over 100 international markets, with APM Terminals Pipavav Port exporting 1,534 eVITARA units to the UK and Germany.
Kandla International Container Terminal (KICT) achieved a remarkable milestone by surpassing 4 million tonnes in cargo handling on August 27, 2025, showcasing enhanced efficiency and operational reliability. This accomplishment is attributed to effective teamwork and strong customer relationships, solidifying Deendayal Port’s status as a key player in India’s maritime trade.
A civilian cargo ship, NS PRIDE, flagged in Belize, was damaged by an explosion near Ukraine’s Odesa region. Fortunately, the crew remained unharmed. This incident underscores ongoing tensions in the area, raising concerns about the safety of maritime vessels navigating conflict zones amid significant military activity.
Captain Oreh Danylin of the MSC Jubilee IX is facing a $10,000 arrest warrant issued by King County after missing a court hearing. This follows his detention for operating while intoxicated, where he recorded a blood alcohol concentration of 0.24%. Following his absence, Danylin’s legal troubles have intensified.
An inquest into sailor Sam Richmond’s death aboard the superyacht Farfalla has raised urgent calls for improved yacht safety standards. Richmond suffered a fatal head injury due to a pad eye failure linked to fatigue cracking. His widow highlighted his passion for sailing, emphasizing the need for rigorous safety measures.
During his visit to Japan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the Quad’s vital role in maritime security and disaster relief. He emphasized the partnership’s contributions to humanitarian assistance and technology, asserting it has become a “force for global good.” Modi also underscored the importance of the India-Japan alliance for regional stability.
Cochin Shipyard has begun constructing the Pelagic Wahoo, a sophisticated commissioning service operation vessel for Pelagic Wind Services. This cutting-edge vessel, measuring 93 meters and designed for sustainability, will accommodate 120 personnel. With advanced hybrid propulsion and automation, it highlights Cochin Shipyard’s commitment to innovation and environmentally-friendly practices.
Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, has partnered with IIT Kharagpur to develop a master plan for the Hooghly Riverbank, aiming to boost tourism. Chairman Rathendra Raman announced plans for a dedicated river cruise terminal, echoing successful models in Varanasi and Assam, with tenders to be issued soon.
