The Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) is implementing initiatives like ‘One Nation: One Port Process (ONOP)’ to modernize India’s maritime infrastructure and streamline operations. Minister Sarbananda Sonowal introduced these initiatives along with Sagar Ankalan to improve efficiency and global competitiveness in the maritime sector, emphasizing collaboration and innovation for growth.
The chemical tanker Basset experienced an unauthorized boarding in the Singapore Strait, injuring one crew member. The vessel is now anchored while medical evacuation is underway. This incident raises concerns over maritime safety, following a series of robbery reports in the region earlier this year, despite low violence against crews.
The Eleen Armonia, a Bulgarian bulker, bravely rescued 34 seafarers from a burning fishing boat 500 miles southeast of Sri Lanka. The crew used hoses to control the flames and successfully evacuated the stranded seafarers after five hours of firefighting efforts. The rescued seafarers received care and supplies before being repatriated to Indonesia.
The UK Department for Transport’s official statistics for seafarers in the UK Shipping Industry in 2024 revealed a total of 23,700 active UK seafarers, with a slight decrease from the previous year. The majority were male, with higher female representation among Uncertificated Officers and Ratings. The data also showed variations in nationality, gender, age, and certification.
In the early days of dynamic positioning (DP) technology, deep-sea divers depended on the accuracy of their support vessel’s DP system for safety. A slight error could be life-threatening. Despite advancements, risks remained, as seen in Chris Lemons’ 2012 North Sea ordeal. “Last Breath” film tells his story.
Crews from a log boat at Eastland Port recently sparked curiosity as they disembarked for shore leave. An Eastland Port spokeswoman confirmed that under Alert Level 2, crew members can come ashore if their vessels meet stringent health protocols, including a 14-day quarantine and approved health declarations to ensure community safety.
Eltronic FuelTech has partnered with Aarhus University on the AMAZE project to develop a system aimed at reducing ammonia emissions from dual-fuel vessels. Funded by the Danish EUDP, the initiative targets a full-scale prototype to limit emissions below 25ppm, enhancing the sustainability of maritime transportation by utilizing ammonia as a carbon-neutral fuel.
Shippers in 2025 are facing challenges with capacity and deployment due to tariffs, Red Sea traffic changes, and the new alliance Gemini. Despite disruptions in 2024, the industry saw record years. The return to normal routes and the launch of Gemini could impact rates and competition in the industry, leading to overcapacity.
The Port of Tyne has invested in the UK’s first fully electric foiling pilot vessel, designed by Artemis Technologies. This milestone acquisition will improve safety and efficiency in transferring pilots to ships in northeast England. Scheduled for delivery this year, the vessel’s zero emissions align with the Port’s goal of a net-zero pilotage service.
Draft amendments have been proposed in Bangladesh to update ship recycling and hazardous waste management laws to meet international standards. Key stakeholders from government and private sectors attended a workshop to review these amendments, emphasizing the importance of environmental performance and worker safety. The amendments aim to align with international conventions.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced a 4,800 billion rupees investment to boost Assam’s waterways sector, aligning with PM Modi’s Viksit Bharat vision. Funds will go to green ships, cruise tourism, and infrastructure projects. Plans include a Water Metro service, electric catamarans, and a new cruise terminal in Guwahati.
Eighty-eight individuals aboard Holland America’s Eurodam cruise ship in the Caribbean were affected by a norovirus outbreak, marking the fifth incident since December. Symptoms included vomiting and diarrhea. The crew quickly implemented increased cleaning measures and isolated affected passengers. The Vessel Sanitation Program is monitoring outbreaks across cruise lines.
International shipping lines are actively recruiting officers and crew members, with over 300,000 seafarers needed globally in the next five years. Major companies emphasize the demand for qualified candidates, urging potential recruits to prepare adequately to meet international standards and seize these promising job opportunities in the maritime industry.
The ICS Academy, initiated by the International Chamber of Shipping, revolutionizes maritime education by offering seafarers tailored e-learning that emphasizes best practices and compliance. With features like a mobile app for offline access and innovative courses such as 3D engine simulations, it merges traditional knowledge with modern digital learning solutions.
The Welsh Government is investing over £1 million in the marine, fisheries, and aquaculture industry to support sustainable growth and help coastal communities thrive. Funding includes £700,000 for revenue and £700,000 for capital, with a 10-week application window open for various activities such as enhancing aquaculture sites and equipment.
