The Indian Coast Guard detained an Iranian fishing vessel with six Indian crew off the coast of Kerala. The crew alleged ill-treatment by the Iranian sponsor, who confiscated their passports. Initial investigation revealed the owner was an Iranian national who contracted the Indian fishermen. The vessel was brought to Kochi for further investigation.
The JNPA is undergoing significant expansion, set to create a million jobs in the next decade. Along with the construction of a port at Nhava Sheva in 1989, the development in areas like Panvel and Navi Mumbai has been rapid. The final stages of the expansion project aim to increase efficiency and capacity at the port to 10 million TEU. Plans for a new port at Vadhavan aim to reduce India’s dependence on international ports, pending cabinet approval post-elections. Additional projects like an integrated food storage facility and an independent water supply system are also in the pipeline to support the expansion.
Citing infrastructure issues, the Lakshadweep government will not resume ship traffic from Beypore port. Traders claim neglect due to vested interests. Despite assurances of adequate depth, Lakshadweep residents protest the decision, facing challenges under the current government. Ship services connecting islands to Mangaluru have resumed, with tickets priced at Rs 650.
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (“APSEZ”) achieved remarkable results for quarter and twelve months ending March 31, 2024. Notably, the company recorded a 24% increase in cargo volume, 28% growth in revenue, 44% jump in EBITDA, and a 50% increase in PAT. APSEZ acquired Gopalpur Port and Karaikal Port for future growth.
The International Coordinating Council on Trans-Eurasian Transportation (CCTT) and the Federation of Freight Forwarding Associations of India (FFFAI) organized the ‘India-And-World’ Business Forum in Mumbai. The event aimed to strengthen partnerships, promote logistics services, and develop the North-South International Transport Corridor. Key dignitaries and industry stakeholders attended.
The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) signed a MoU with MARIN on April 29, 2024, to collaborate on Hydrodynamic Studies and Model Testing for new construction projects classed by IRS. MARIN will provide scientific knowledge and research services, enhancing IRS’s ability to offer advanced maritime solutions. Both parties aim to meet client requirements through definitive agreements.
Launched simultaneously, Sonalika and Sarovar boast cutting-edge features and technologies, designed to the highest standards of safety and performance. Mr. Saikat Roychowdhury of IRS believes these tugs will play a critical role in the maritime ecosystem, showcasing collaborative efforts between Indian shipyards for success in offshore oil fields.
The Indian Coast Guard conducted an intelligence-based anti-narcotics operation at sea, seizing 86 kg of narcotics worth Rs 600 crore from a Pakistani boat in the Arabian Sea. This successful collaboration between various agencies led to the apprehension of the boat and its crew, showcasing the effectiveness of inter-agency coordination.
Discussions are ongoing with potential players for facilities like bunkering, with methanol being considered as one of the key green fuels for EXIM Vessels globally. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is exploring mechanisms for developing indigenous methanol marine engines as a progressive step towards the green transition of inland vessels.
The Adani Group’s Vizhinjam Port has been approved by the shipping ministry to operate as India’s first transshipment port. Customs office set up is underway, with a final nod expected from CBIC in the next three months. The project aims to handle over a million containers annually, boosting India’s cargo share.
A high-level Indian delegation, led by the Shipping Minister, is set to visit Iran after India’s general elections in the latter half of 2024. This visit will facilitate the signing of a contract to fully utilize the strategically vital Chabahar Port, developed with Indian aid, confirming a positive and lucrative agreement between both countries.
Technology group Wärtsilä has relocated its Expertise Centre in Navi Mumbai, India to provide remote support for its Middle East & Asia customers. By integrating data sources, the Centre aims to improve asset efficiency and customer experience. Utilizing AI, Wärtsilä aims to enhance asset availability and reliability through real-time collaboration.
According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, iron ore shipments increased by 32.68 percent, raw fertilizer shipments rose by 13.56 percent, and coking coal movements went up by 10.24 percent in FY24. The major ports saw an overall growth of 8.06 percent in TEUs, with JNPT handling the largest container volume.
The Bombay High Court ruled that the accommodation ship certification order issued by the Director General of Shipping in 2022 only applies to Indian ships registered under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1858. Hind Offshore Pvt. Ltd. challenged the order, arguing their vessels were not covered under the Act. The court granted an injunction for the release of the vessels.
According to ADB India director Mio Oka, the Indian government’s focus on infrastructure development and fiscal consolidation will boost manufacturing competitiveness, driving growth and exports. ADB forecasts India’s economy to grow 7.6% in FY24, with strong growth in the manufacturing sector. Private investment and urban housing initiatives will further support growth.
