India is set to inaugurate its first domestic coastal green shipping corridor, connecting Kandla with Thoothukudi. This initiative aims to decarbonize maritime logistics and is expected to be operational within six months. Ports will promote green fuels, including methanol, to power retrofitted vessels, advancing sustainable maritime practices.
During his visit, Shantanu Thakur, the Foreign Minister for Häfen, Shipping, and Waterways, engaged stakeholders at Visakhapatnam Port Authority. He praised their collaborative projects and urged exploration in shipbuilding and cruise tourism. Thakur highlighted green initiatives aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision and underscored community development through CSR programs for tribal youth.
The Support for Maritime Training (SMarT) fund, with a multi-million-pound budget, aids cadets and junior officers in the maritime sector by covering up to 50% of training costs. The funding deadline has been extended to March 2025, promoting recruitment and enhancing careers in maritime for both men and women.
A coalition of 82 non-profits and industry stakeholders has urged the EU to adopt stronger policies to support the shipping industry’s climate goals. They criticized recent International Maritime Organization measures as insufficient for achieving decarbonization, emphasizing the need for enhanced support for green hydrogen and e-fuels to meet emissions targets.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has expanded its fleet with the addition of the “Green Sachi,” a very large gas carrier reflagged to India. Operated by MOL (India) PVT LTD, which now owns 11 tankers, this move strengthens its presence in India’s shipping market, particularly at Gift City, a financial hub.
A recent U.S. military strike on Ras Isa’s fueling infrastructure killed at least 80, raising concerns about seafarer safety at Ras Isa Port amidst ongoing clashes. The UKMTO warns vessels face significant risks, advising ships to reconsider operations near ports impacted by military action. The situation remains tense following a ceasefire announcement.
Argentine authorities have made a significant breakthrough in organized crime with the largest drug seizure in Port San Lorenzo’s history. Investigations are ongoing after the ship’s cook confessed to involvement in smuggling. Authorities uncovered 469,500 kilos of cocaine, valued at nearly $6 million in Argentina, indicating professional gang involvement.
The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) in Singapore has launched a groundbreaking study, COLOSSUS, analyzing emissions savings and costs related to onboard carbon capture and storage systems (OCCS). It evaluates five OCCS technologies and highlights significant GHG reductions, particularly with advanced systems and biofuels, offering vital insights for shipowners.
On Monday, the Indonesian ferry Muchlisa sank off East Kalimantan, resulting in the deaths of two crew members. The incident occurred during a journey from Balikpapan to Penajam when the ferry’s engine failed, leading to hull damage. Despite grounding itself on a sandbar, it later sank offshore.
The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has opened a new office in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, enhancing its support for the Kingdom’s maritime and oil & gas sectors. This strategic expansion will improve service delivery to local clients, offering services like ship classification, inspections, and compliance audits, reinforcing IRS’s regional presence.
A new report, “Getting to Zero Coalition Action Framework,” details industry efforts to decarbonize shipping, published by the Global Maritime Forum. It evaluates progress on 26 actions towards achieving full decarbonization by 2050, highlighting advancements from 76 companies in areas like policy engagement and market incentives for zero-emission shipping.
The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has achieved a key milestone with the North Cargo Berth–III, now operational for interim commercial use. Managed by JSW Tuticorin, it efficiently handles dry-bulk cargo using two 120-tonne cranes. The berth can accommodate vessels up to 95,000 deadweight tons, enhancing maritime trade significantly.
Gibraltar is making strides in combating drug smuggling with newly acquired underwater drones. A recent bust involved the bulker Great Zhou, where divers recovered 120 kg of cocaine hidden in its sea chest. Chief Minister Fabian Picardo commended HM Customs for their effective operation and commitment to fighting drug-related crime.
SK Incheon Petrochem has launched Korea’s first bio marine fuel, B30, comprising 30% bio-based materials and 70% Straight Run Fuel Oil (SRFO). This initiative aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping sector, aligning with international standards and contributing to sustainability in maritime operations. Official supply began on April 26, 2025.
The Kolkata port has initiated night navigation on the Hooghly River, significantly cutting vessel wait times and improving efficiency. The first successful night transit was the container ship MV Sinarpenida, enhancing operational flow. Modern navigation technologies and illuminated infrastructure support this advancement, promising increased daily ship throughput at the port.
