NYK and the Hong Kong Police Force recently conducted a counterterrorism drill on board NYK’s NYK Daniella, a 210-meter, 2,664-TEU containership in Hong Kong’s waters. The drill lasted an hour, involving terrorists entering the vessel by boat, leading to a search and suppression operation by Hong Kong special forces.
KMRL is conducting a feasibility study for Water Metro services in Kollam and 17 other cities in India. Hybrid electric ferries may be introduced, with a firm conducting traffic and other assessments. Detailed project reports will focus on sustainable urban water transport. Potential locations include Guwahati, Jammu and Kashmir, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Tobias Backer, executive director of Pelagic Capital, addresses the cash requirements in the shipping industry amidst geopolitical challenges. With conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, regulatory changes for green initiatives, and US protectionism affecting trade relationships, traditional banks are cautious in lending. Alternative credit institutions like MareVia Credit Fund aim to fill the capital gap for shipowners.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visits to Thailand and Sri Lanka reflect India’s evolving maritime strategy, transitioning from the SAGAR initiative to the MAHASAGAR framework. These efforts underscore India’s commitment to enhancing maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region, bolstering regional partnerships, and addressing pressing security challenges such as piracy and climate change.
The proposed passenger jetty near the Gateway of India in Mumbai, developed by the Maharashtra Maritime Board, is facing opposition from locals who view it as an environmental hazard and a threat to heritage sites. Despite government support, residents fear the impact on Colaba’s cultural and environmental fabric, calling for relocation.
DFNI is calling for entries for its new competition, Maritime Moguls, at the 2025 Cruise Conference in Barcelona. In partnership with HAL, HFDF, and the Cruise Retail Academy, one brand will have the opportunity to showcase their products onboard and gain exposure to a high-value cruise audience. Don’t miss this chance to break into the cruise retail sector!
Maritime traffic in Turkey’s Canakkale Strait was halted due to heavy fog, reducing visibility. Vessel Traffic Services suspended transit shipping in both directions. Ferry routes were temporarily suspended for a marathon event. Services were adjusted to minimize disruptions. Operations were set to resume once weather conditions improved, prioritizing safety in maritime transportation.
New research from Scottish Heriot-Watt University reveals that over half of vessels in Scotland’s coastal waters are not visible to tracking systems, hindering marine resource management. Only 43 percent of vessels near the coast broadcast AIS signals, impacting safety and marine life. The study highlights the need for improved monitoring to inform regulations and protect ecosystems.
Eight Filipino seafarers detained in Malaysia for immigration violations have been released with the help of DMW. Labor Attaché Jocelyn Ortega and Secretary Hans Cacdac played a crucial role. The manning agency will continue to pay their salaries. Repatriation arrangements are underway. The coordinated efforts ensured the seafarers’ safety and well-being throughout the process.
Swiss engineering giant ABB has developed a revolutionary biomimetic technology inspired by the swimming motion of whales. The Dynafin propulsion system replicates efficient swimming techniques, potentially transforming how vessels navigate seas. Achieving up to 81% efficiency, the system reduces fuel consumption by 22% and CO₂ emissions. This innovative approach combines robotics expertise with nature’s design principles.
The Visakhapatnam Port Authority is building a state-of-the-art Unified Command Control Center with advanced technologies like AI to improve operational efficiency and security. Collaborating with NSIG, the VPA aims to complete the UCCC in six months. Features include multi-spectral cameras, drones, and IoT sensors for predictive maintenance and land management.
The Hinnøy, Norway’s largest fully battery-powered ferry, has completed construction in Turkey and is on its way to Norway. With a capacity for 399 passengers and 120 cars, it will operate in the Arctic fjord region, setting new records in size, speed, and charging capabilities. This marks a significant step towards sustainable maritime transportation in Norway.
The Canadian Coast Guard has recovered tar balls near the area where the MSC Baltic III containership ran aground in Newfoundland. Initial testing suggests the oil likely came from the vessel, with no evidence of a consistent leak. Salvage efforts are ongoing to remove fuel and containers from the damaged ship.
Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd has revealed plans to acquire a coal export terminal in Australia for $2.4 billion. The acquisition of Abbot Point Port Holdings Pte Ltd will enhance its foothold in the Asia-Pacific region. With a capacity of 50 million tonnes per annum, this move aligns with the company’s global growth strategy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to commission the Vizhinjam International Seaport on May 2, after it has been operational for commercial purposes since December. The delay in inauguration was due to technical issues, now resolved. Agreements have been made for funding and environmental clearance, paving the way for future development.
