Mumbai’s SHM Global has been acknowledged for its pioneering indigenous lifeboat development, aligning with Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat. At the Indian Register of Shipping ceremony, MD Praveen K. Mishra praised the KISS 700 and PN95FA lifeboats, emphasizing SHM’s role in enhancing India’s maritime self-reliance and safety standards.
Seafarers’ Rights International commemorated the Day of the Seafarer by advocating for greater international cooperation to protect seafarers affected by geopolitical tensions and conflicts. This year’s theme, “Carrying world trade. Carrying the risks,” highlights the dangers faced by commercial shipping, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated action among stakeholders.
The Indian Coast Guard has welcomed the ICGS Akshay, a state-of-the-art Fast Patrol Vessel, in Goa. As the first of eight vessels, built by Goa Shipyard Limited, it enhances coastal security capabilities. Designed for diverse operations, its induction marks a significant step in India’s indigenous shipbuilding efforts and maritime readiness.
Ships continue to transit the Strait of Hormuz, but fewer are broadcasting their movements due to recent attacks. Iran targeted an oil tanker, raising safety concerns among shipping companies. Despite this, US-supported navigation remains uninterrupted, and traffic has stayed above average levels, albeit with increased caution regarding electronic tracking.
On Tuesday, Vijay Kumar, IAS, visited the New Mangalore Port Authority to evaluate its operations and future projects. Welcomed by the Chairman and Deputy Chairperson, he inspected cargo facilities, focusing on efficiency and sustainability. Kumar inaugurated several modernization projects, including a truck parking facility, reflecting a commitment to operational excellence and employee welfare.
Rocket Lab Corporation has announced its acquisition of Iridium Communications Inc. for $54 per share, valuing Iridium at approximately $8 billion. This merger enhances Rocket Lab’s launch capabilities and expands into satellite IoT and safety services, creating new opportunities in the global telecom market and strengthening its vertical integration.
The Indian-flagged bulk carrier APJ Priti 2 successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, transporting 65,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser amid regional tensions. This transit is a positive sign for India’s cargo movement, alleviating logistical pressures and ensuring the vital supply of fertiliser for agricultural chains, despite lingering security concerns.
The JSI Alliance successfully completed a challenging project for Afcons Infrastructure Limited in India, constructing a new liquid cargo berth for Gujarat Chemical Port Ltd. Key operations involved heavy lifting of eight jackets and fifteen berthing dolphins amidst strong currents and tidal rises, showcasing innovative solutions and effective collaboration.
On Monday, Qatar announced a temporary suspension of sailing and maritime activities due to safety concerns. This measure affects leisure and fishing boats, as well as jet skis. The decision follows a tragic incident involving a Qatari national killed by shrapnel linked to military operations, raising maritime safety concerns.
The Cyprus Marine Club recently hosted its largest gathering, attracting around 200 members from the maritime community. Club President Captain Eberhard Koch emphasized the impressive turnout and announced new corporate members. Keynote speaker Prabhat Jha highlighted Cyprus’s strategic role in MSC Shipmanagement, blending industry insights with personal anecdotes during his engaging presentation.
The U.S. military has launched strikes against Iranian targets, escalating tensions after a drone attack on a tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump warned of severe consequences for Iran, as both nations accuse each other of violating a recent ceasefire. The situation remains tense and complex.
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has launched the Seafarer Discharge Book Management Portal, enhancing application and issuance processes for seafarers. Dr. Dayo Mobereola highlighted its role in digital transformation, aiming to streamline procedures and improve certification integrity, ensuring better support for Nigerian seafarers in global trade.
The Seafarers Union of Kenya has expressed concerns over the absence of a national wage structure for seafarers, urging government action for fair compensation. Secretary Atie Ramadhan highlighted that many Kenyan seafarers earn less than foreign peers, calling for collaboration with the Seafarers Wages Council to establish equitable salary guidelines.
Salvors in Kenya are working to remove the MV Dan, a Turkish-owned vessel stranded near a marine protected area for six weeks. The ship ran aground off Nyali Beach on May 17. Environmentalists worry about potential fuel leaks, but the Kenya Maritime Authority assures that the vessel poses minimal risk.
The Maritime Search and Rescue Team located the vessel early on Sunday, June 28. Tragically, a Qatari citizen died from shrapnel injuries related to military operations, while an Arab resident was hospitalized in stable condition. The Ministry of Interior expressed condolences and confirmed ongoing investigations into the incident.
