Iran and Iraq are set to launch the first maritime passenger transport line in the next two months, according to Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization. The initiative aims to improve transportation of passengers by sea between the two countries, with Abadan and Khorramshahr ports in Iran ready to connect to Wasliya and Basra ports in Iraq.
British maritime security company Ambrey reported an attack on a ship near Hodeidah in Yemen, while UKMTO received a similar report of missiles near a ship in the same area without damage. The Houthis in Yemen continue attacks in solidarity with Palestinians, disrupting global shipping and prompting US and UK strikes against Houthi targets.
A cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas turned into a nightmare when a young man jumped overboard off the coast of Cuba. His family watched in horror as the 18-story ship’s crew and the US Coast Guard launched a search and rescue operation. Overboard incidents on cruise ships are rare but often deadly.
Ship recycling rates have hit a two-decade low, with only two million deadweight tons scrapped in the first quarter of 2024. Market shocks and strong demand have extended ship lifespans. BIMCO predicts a resurgence in recycling due to oversupply and increased tanker sector deliveries as new containers flood the market.
Plans are underway for the launch of a maritime single window program in Ghana to streamline vessel clearance at ports. This digital platform will enhance information sharing among shipping lines and regulatory agencies, aligning with international standards. Stakeholders are being briefed on the system’s benefits and functionality ahead of its phased rollout in April.
The Indian Coast Guard successfully rescued a 10-member fishing boat crew after their vessel was flooded near Chennai. Eight fishermen were saved, but one died and another is missing. The Coast Guard received a distress call and coordinated with merchant vessels to assist in the rescue operation, despite initial reluctance from the fishermen to leave their boat.
The Baltimore bridge collapse has brought attention to fuel contamination in shipping, though its connection to the disaster is still unclear. Experts suggest “bad fuel” may have caused power outages on the container ship Dali before it struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26 in Maryland.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has revamped the survey for seafarers to provide feedback on their training experience. This initiative aims to enhance strengths, identify weaknesses, and ensure relevant skills for the future. Chief Examiner Ajit Jacob emphasizes the importance of hearing from cadets to maintain the UK’s reputation for producing skilled seafarers.
The financial year ended March 31, 2024, saw the two major ports handling a higher volume of goods, leading to increased operating profits. The CPA reported a nine percent increase to ₹1,056 crore, while KPL reported an eight percent increase to ₹1,060 crore. Both ports saw a significant rise in net surplus as well.
Alphaliner’s report revealed MSC’s fleet grew by 20% last year, installing 583,700 refrigeration connections on 815 ships. Only Ocean Network Express surpassed this growth, increasing cooling ports by 23%. HMM, on the other hand, reduced its refrigeration capacity by 1% due to fleet reduction. European carriers lead in refrigerated cargo capacity.
New UCC-led research is pushing the Irish shipping industry towards low-carbon alternatives with the ShipFuel initiative. Sea traffic transports 90% of Ireland’s goods, contributing to 3% of global CO2 emissions. The industry’s lag in transitioning from fossil fuels is highlighted by the increasing size and energy use of ships.
Kamarajar port in North Chennai is set to become Cape compliant by investing ₹325 crore in a dredging project. The KPL has issued a global tender for capital dredging to accommodate large Capesize ships. With plans for future growth, KPL aims to expand its cargo handling capacity and develop additional berths for coal and liquid cargo.
The Baltimore allision has sparked concerns about aging infrastructure and the increasing size of ships. Safety measures are being reevaluated, with a focus on tug assistance and machinery testing. Port authorities may take a more active role in decision-making to prevent future incidents. Research into ship systems and blackouts is also suggested.
The temporary channel has a depth of 14 feet with 280 feet of horizontal clearance and 124 feet vertical clearance. The Key Bridge Response 2024 team is working on removing wreckage using crane barges. Transit is limited to daylight hours at the captain’s discretion. The deep draft channel remains the top priority.
Grace Ocean and Synergy Marine deny responsibility for the accident involving their 10,000 teu ship. They filed a petition to consolidate litigation in Baltimore’s federal court and cap any liability at the vessel’s value. The Limitation of Liability Act of 1851 will determine if they can limit liability based on lack of knowledge.
