In response to the Hormuz crisis, India has updated its transshipment regulations to improve cargo handling at its ports, aiming to attract volumes diverted from the Persian Gulf. This adjustment reduces dwell times and enhances efficiency, positioning Indian terminals as competitive alternatives amid regional instability and boosting local energy supply chains.
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has teamed up with HBL Engineering Limited to form a Joint Venture focused on electric mobility and energy storage in the maritime sector. This collaboration aims to develop advanced marine batteries, electric motors, and charging infrastructure, supporting the global transition to sustainable maritime solutions.
The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has commenced generating carbon credits through its renewable energy initiatives, showcasing a leap in sustainable port management. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the port is advancing toward becoming a hub for green growth, with projects expected to generate significant revenue and carbon credits.
Amid rising tensions in the Persian Gulf, the Indian government has confirmed the safety of all Indian seafarers, with no incidents reported recently. Eighteen vessels, crewed by 485 seafarers, are operating normally. Notably, two LPG carriers have successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring the flow of essential goods continues.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has granted a three-month extension for crew certificates, easing the burden on seafarers stranded in the Gulf. This decision addresses potential compliance issues amid heightened security and operational challenges. Additionally, safety training certificates will also see a similar extension, reflecting ongoing industry support.
On Monday, India reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of Indian seafarers amid ongoing Gulf tensions. A senior Ministry of External Affairs official emphasized the priority of safety for the Indian community. Continuous support and communication with seafarers and their families are being maintained, ensuring their well-being during this challenging period.
The Dredging Corporation of India Limited (DCIL) celebrated its Golden Jubilee in Visakhapatnam, marking 50 years of enhancing India’s maritime infrastructure. Founded in 1976, DCIL now handles nearly 80% of the country’s maintenance dredging, with revenue soaring to ₹1,148 crore last year. The event highlighted future ventures and global aspirations.
The Indian government reported that twenty Indian-flagged vessels with 540 seafarers are under surveillance in the Persian Gulf. The Ministry of Ports confirmed all seafarers are safe, with no incidents in the last 24 hours. Ongoing coordination with maritime stakeholders ensures their welfare and smooth port operations across India.
Two Indian LPG carriers, BW TYR and BW ELM, are heading to India with a combined 94,000 metric tonnes of LPG. BW TYR is set to arrive in Mumbai on March 31, while BW ELM will reach New Mangalore on April 1. The Ministry of Ports ensures safety measures for seafarers.
Four weeks into the conflict, India’s trade with West Asia has plummeted, with exports nearly grinding to a halt since March 1. Pankaj Chadha emphasized the disruption caused by the Hormuz blockade, affecting shipping, air cargo, and creating a financial crisis for exporters, particularly small and medium enterprises reliant on timely payments.
As part of India’s Maritime India Vision 2030, the country is transitioning to electric harbour tugs, with the Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP) leading the way. Major ports like Deendayal and Jawaharlal Nehru are among the first globally to adopt fully electric towing fleets, promoting sustainability in maritime operations.
Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) recently surpassed 8 million TEUs in container throughput, alongside a record cargo achievement of 100 million metric tonnes. This success, attributed to robust collaborations with terminal operators, highlights JNPA’s dedication to enhancing infrastructure and supporting India’s ambition as a global maritime hub.
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. (APSEZ) has launched India’s first Port of Refuge (PoR) to improve maritime emergency response. Located at Dighi Port and Gopalpur Port, the initiative aims to enhance safety for distressed vessels and support critical services like salvage and pollution containment, aligning with global maritime standards.
India has launched ‘Operation Urja Suraksha’ to safeguard merchant vessels transporting energy supplies from the Persian Gulf. This operation shifts focus towards a strategic plan for 22 Indian-flagged vessels, crucial for LNG, LPG, and crude oil. Coordination with Iranian authorities aims to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
The Dakshin Bharat Gateway Terminal (DBGT) in Tamil Nadu achieved a milestone by welcoming its first 100% transhipment vessel, MSC Krystal, on March 26. Handling 1,307 TEUs not linked to Indian ports, this event marks DBGT’s readiness to capture transhipment traffic and bolster India’s position in global shipping routes.
