JSW Infrastructure Limited has received approval from the Syama Prasad Mookerjee port authority for reconstructing berth 8 and mechanizing berths 7 and 8 at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Dock. This £740 billion public-private partnership project aims to enhance container processing and boost operational efficiency, aligning with the government’s privatization strategy.
The Vizhinjam international seaport has achieved a remarkable milestone, handling over 800,000 TEUs from approximately 385 ships since its launch. It ranks third nationally, leading private ports in the eastern and southern regions. With plans for expansion, Vizhinjam is set to significantly enhance maritime operations in southern India.
The burned boxship Wan Hai 503 is currently under tow off India’s southeastern coast as salvors stabilize the vessel. Despite ongoing smoke from the holds, fire suppression efforts using foam have contained the flames. Tugs are on-site for cooling, while dewatering and alternative port options are being explored.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced a plan to generate 50,000 jobs in the northeastern maritime sector over the next decade. The initiative includes training 5,000 youth annually at the Maritime Skill Development Centre in Guwahati, emphasizing the government’s commitment to empowering youth with world-class maritime skills aligned with the Prime Minister’s vision.
On July 7, 2025, the Japan Coast Guard ship Itsukushima, under Captain Naoki Mizoguchi, docked at Chennai Port, symbolizing enhanced maritime ties between India and Japan. This visit includes bilateral meetings, joint training, and a key sea exercise called Jaa Mata, reinforcing cooperation and commitment to regional maritime security.
The Directorate General of Shipping announced that 11 ships carrying 150 Indian seafarers have set sail from Yemen’s Ras Isa port, following a significant maritime crisis triggered by an April air raid. MT GAZ GMS was the last vessel to depart on June 29, 2025, after extensive diplomatic efforts.
India is revamping its strategy to strengthen its merchant fleet, responding to inadequate outcomes from a ₹1,624 crore initiative. The government plans to import 200 ships, valued at ₹1.3 lakh crore, to support vital sectors and boost its presence in global marine trade. Interministerial talks underscore the urgency of expanding the fleet.
The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) is enhancing its fleet by acquiring two second-hand Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGCs) with a capacity of 82,000 cubic meters each. This strategic move, formalized on July 4, 2025, aims to strengthen SCI’s tonnage and operational capabilities in response to growing market demands.
Cochin Shipyard Ltd. (CSL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering to explore long-term cooperation in shipbuilding. This partnership aims to enhance technical knowledge and develop new shipbuilding opportunities, supporting India’s ambition to become a leading marine hub in the global maritime industry.
A groundbreaking ceremony for the Kalinga Maritime Museum at Paradip Port took place on Friday, highlighting India’s commitment to marine heritage. Chairman P L Haranadh praised the museum’s innovative fish-shaped design, optimized for natural wind flow. Engineered to withstand Odisha’s extreme climate, it promises to be a vital cultural landmark.
At a recent board meeting, the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) approved a mediation plan to address a dispute with Boskalis Smit India LLP and Jan de Nul-Baggering India PVT LTD concerning a 2019 dredging project. The Mumbai Center for International Arbitration will oversee this mediation. Total claims have escalated to around £800 million.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal celebrated the luxury cruise ship MV Empress’s arrival in Vishakhapatnam, marking a significant milestone for Andhra Pradesh. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and other officials emphasized expanding cruise tourism, projecting economic benefits and job creation while enhancing maritime infrastructure at various ports across the state.
The Indian government has proposed a regulation requiring shipping companies to deploy at least one tug or towing vessel for emergency response at ports handling over 10 million metric tonnes of cargo annually. This initiative aims to enhance maritime safety following recent disasters, underscoring the need for improved emergency preparedness.
The Indian Maritime University (IMU) hosted a strategic consultation on the Indian Ship Technology (IST), featuring government officials, shipyard leaders, and global tech partners. Dr. Malini V. Shankar emphasized reviving the National Ship Design Research Centre. Discussions focused on aligning IST with national initiatives, fostering collaboration, and enhancing maritime innovation.
The Singapore-flagged container ship Wan Hai 503 was relocated outside India’s Exclusive Economic Zone after a fire claimed one crew member’s life. The incident, which occurred on June 22, prompted a major emergency response from Indian authorities, who successfully evacuated 20 crew members while managing ongoing firefighting efforts.
