With just four days until the Vizhinjam International Seaport’s commissioning, the Kerala Maritime Board plans to upgrade the adjacent minor port through a public-private partnership. Pending state government approval, redevelopment aims to enhance capacity for small and mid-sized ships, integrating it further into regional logistics and ferry services.
The Union Budget’s revamped Ship Building Financial Assistance Policy and the ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund have passed the Expenditure Finance Committee review, awaiting Cabinet approval. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the fund to enhance competitiveness in the maritime industry, including significant government contributions and updated shipbuilding assistance schemes.
Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra’s Palghar district has secured agreements worth ₹57 billion for its upcoming facility. With a total investment of ₹760 billion, the port aims to become India’s 13th largest container port, featuring specialized terminals for liquid cargo and chemicals, enhancing India’s global maritime trade capabilities.
The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority plans to develop a major barge terminal on Balagarh Island to alleviate traffic congestion in Kolkata. Projected to handle 2.7 million tonnes of cargo annually, this initiative aims to enhance logistical operations and improve connectivity for northern regions, benefiting local economies.
The DEENDAYAL Port Authority in Kandla has reached a remarkable milestone, surpassing 10 million metric tons of cargo two days ahead of last year’s deadline. This achievement underscores the port’s efficiency and dedication to service excellence, reflecting its critical contribution to regional economic development, as acknowledged by its chairman and stakeholders.
The Mangaluru Water Metro project has gained approval from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, connecting Bajal to Maravoor via the Netravati and Gurupura rivers. This initiative, part of a broader inland transport plan, aims to establish a training center and enhance regional cargo handling, marking a significant step for Karnataka’s water transport ambitions.
The River Navigation Department is close to finishing its new RoRo ferries to enhance passenger safety. Despite delays, the ferries are expected to undergo trials starting May 15. Challenges in receiving propulsion systems caused setbacks, but the department is determined to launch the ferries next month, improving transportation options in the region.
In the fiscal year 2024-25, India’s inland water transport sector reached a remarkable milestone with a record-breaking cargo movement of 145.5 million tonnes reported by the Inland Waterways Authority of India. This achievement reflects successful investments and policy initiatives, as well as an increase in national waterways and a strategic focus on multimodal connectivity.
The DEENDAYAL Port Authority inaugurated an intelligent classroom at TFG Polytechnic in Gandhidham, part of the Deendayal Kaushal Vikas program to enhance digital learning and skill development. This initiative aims to empower students for better employment opportunities, showcased during the 2025 project fair where innovative student projects received acclaim.
India’s Udupi Cochin Shipyard Limited (UCSL) recently delivered the Wilson Eco 1, the first of six 3,800 DWT green dry cargo vessels to Norway’s Wilson Ship Management AS. This milestone marks a significant achievement in India’s export of eco-friendly maritime solutions. The vessel is part of a green shipping initiative supported by the Norwegian government.
India’s ambitious plans to invest in its maritime industry have attracted the attention of Dutch shipbuilder Damen, who recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Square Port Shipyard to develop a shipyard in India. This partnership aims to bring Damen’s expertise and technology to the region, supporting India’s growing maritime sector and economic development.
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) is advancing towards acquiring a 51% stake in Colombo Dockyard PLC, which is currently facing financial difficulties. The deal, expected to formalize with a Memorandum of Understanding soon, aims to strengthen India’s maritime position while addressing job security concerns among trade unions amid potential management changes.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched cruise operations at the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT) on April 21. He inaugurated key projects, including the renovated Fire Memorial and the revamped Sagar Upvan garden. The MICT, designed to accommodate 1 million passengers annually, aims to boost Mumbai’s cruise tourism status significantly.
The inaugural WISTA India ExCo Conference in Mumbai focused on sustainable shipping and diversity, with over 6,000 international members represented. President Elpi Petraki highlighted collaboration as key to overcoming industry challenges, while Sanjam Gupta praised India’s leadership in sustainable practices and the growing inclusion of women in maritime careers.
KMRL is conducting a feasibility study for Water Metro services in Kollam and 17 other cities in India. Hybrid electric ferries may be introduced, with a firm conducting traffic and other assessments. Detailed project reports will focus on sustainable urban water transport. Potential locations include Guwahati, Jammu and Kashmir, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
