The US International Development Finance Corporation is investigating the Colombo port terminal project in Sri Lanka due to allegations against the Chairman of the Adani Group by the US Department of Justice. Although a loan with Adani Group has not been finalized, their ownership stake in the project raises concerns.
On Sunday night, an offshore supply vessel collided with the Valaris 120 jackup rig in the UK North Sea, prompting a partial evacuation of 52 nonessential personnel. Harbour Energy, the lease operator, confirmed all crew members were safe, while incident response teams coordinated with authorities amid the ongoing safety measures.
At least 17 people are missing after a tourist yacht sank in the Red Sea due to rough seas, according to Egyptian officials. Rescuers saved 28 individuals from the vessel south of Marsa Alam. Some survivors were airlifted for medical treatment. The cause of the sinking remains unclear, with warnings of turbulence issued prior.
The demand for dual-fuel vessels has surged in recent years, with a significant increase in orders for environmentally friendly ships. Major players in the maritime industry are future-proofing their fleets, particularly in container shipping. The rise in dual-fuel engine orders reflects progress in decarbonization efforts and a shift towards more sustainable practices.
At least 22 Somali citizens lost their lives in two migrant boat tragedies off the coast of Madagascar. Local fishermen rescued some survivors, but a total of 22 individuals perished. The Somali Information Minister warned against illegal immigration and vowed to investigate those responsible for organizing the deadly trips.
The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has decided to withdraw Unified Requirement UR H1, “Control of Ammonia Releases in Ammonia Fuelled Vessels,” due to regulatory changes for ammonia as a maritime fuel. This decision aligns with the IMO Interim Guidelines and aims to ensure safety and compliance in the industry by 2025.
A climate change protest off the coast of Australia’s New South Wales State disrupted operations at the Port of Newcastle, the country’s largest coal export terminal. 170 demonstrators were arrested for blocking the shipping channel, causing minimal impact on port operations. The protest, organized by Rising Tide, highlighted the environmental impact of coal exports.
The Third Working Group meeting on Chabahar Port, with India, Iran, and Uzbekistan, occurred in Mumbai on 22 November 2024. Afghanistan Chambers of Commerce delegates attended. The vital role of the port in Afghanistan’s development and creating a trade route to Central Asia was emphasized. They discussed increasing transit traffic and enhancing regional connectivity. India Ports Global showcased the port’s facilities to encourage trade and transit. The next meeting will be scheduled soon.
Maersk’s surprising decision to shift container ships from Felixstowe to London Gateway in 2025, in partnership with Hapag-Lloyd, aims to boost industry schedule reliability to 90%. This move will consolidate Asia-Europe and Middle East-Europe trade at the new port, impacting the longstanding 2M alliance with MSC.
Fuel suppliers and shipping companies are exploring non-FAME biofuels, but CTI-Maritec warns against using Cashew Nutshell Liquid due to harmful compounds. Ships in Singapore and Rotterdam reported issues after using VLSFO blended with CNSL. CTI-Maritec advises against using CNSL as a marine fuel, recommending established biofuels instead. Understanding blend compounds is crucial for safe fuel usage.
The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) and Maersk Training (MT) have joined forces to establish a Center of Excellence for leadership and crisis management training. This collaboration aims to enhance the skills of SCA employees through global training programs and a ‘Train the Trainer’ concept. The partnership reflects a commitment to excellence and innovation.
Hong Kong & Kowloon Ferry Limited (HKKF) has recently welcomed two new hybrid ferries, designed by Incat Crowther and built by Cheoy Lee Shipyards in Hong Kong. These eco-friendly vessels will serve commuter routes to various islands, boasting zero-emissions operation and innovative features like solar panels and lithium-ion energy storage systems. The fleet modernization project aims to enhance sustainability and efficiency in Hong Kong’s ferry service.
Teledyne FLIR Defense has secured a deal to supply UltraFORCE 380X-HDc multi-spectral imaging systems to NL EASP AIR for installation on three Dornier DO328-110 aircraft in Europe. These systems are intended for maritime patrol, search and rescue, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions across European Union member states.
Strategic Marine Pte Ltd, Mirai Ships Inc., and Ragnar Energy Solutions Pte Ltd have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for newbuilding collaborations in the shipbuilding industry. This partnership aims to meet the growing demand for Crew Transfer Vessels in Japan’s offshore energy market, supporting sustainable initiatives and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The IMO 2020 Sulfur Cap has brought about the use of VLSFO fuel with low sulfur content. However, engine issues persist due to off-spec fuels. The ISO launched a standard for methanol as a marine fuel. Shipping companies like Maersk are investing in eco-friendly vessels, with a focus on methanol to reduce emissions.
