News items selected for weekly newsletter
The Indian Coast Guard successfully rescued 12 seafarers stranded in the Arabian Sea after their vessel sank. With assistance from the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency, the crew was located and found to be in good health. This collaborative effort highlights the commitment to maritime safety and security in the region.
The government plans to offer three-year subsidies to cargo owners for transporting goods through inland waterways, aiming to increase freight movement in India from the current 2%. The proposal includes a 35% subsidy for river transport on specific national waterways, with an expected shift of 800 million tkm of cargo.
The third meeting of the Joint ILO-IMO Tripartite Working Group in Geneva adopted Guidelines on Fair Treatment of Seafarers detained in connection with alleged crimes. These guidelines aim to protect the rights and interests of seafarers during investigations and detention. They will be presented to the IMO Legal Committee in March 2025 for adoption.
The recent survey on disparities within the seafarer community revealed alarming rates of psychological and sexual harassment among women and LGBTQ+ members. The lack of DEI training for senior ranks was also identified as a concern. Despite challenges, there were positive aspects, highlighting the need for a more inclusive maritime industry.
ClassNK has launched new E-Learning courses on maritime cyber security through its ‘ClassNK Academy’ platform. With the increasing risks of cyber-attacks in the evolving maritime industry, it is crucial for ship operators to have a solid understanding of cyber security. The courses aim to deepen participants’ knowledge and skills to better protect ship systems.
The Sogestran Group has unveiled France’s first hydrogen-powered river vessel, the Zulu 06, on the Seine in Paris. With a cargo capacity of 400 tons, this 55-meter vessel is designed for small deck cargoes in Paris. Featuring hydrogen fuel cells, the Zulu 06 showcases a new, clean business model for urban waterway transportation.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal reported a significant 48.65% decrease in average ship turnaround time at major Indian ports. This improvement is credited to enhanced efficiency, digitalization, and infrastructure development. Specific ports like Jawahar Lal Nehru Port saw turnaround times drop to just 26 hours.
Captain Ian Finley, a respected maritime professional with decades of experience, was honored with the prestigious International Maritime Prize for 2023. Recognized for his contributions to maritime legislation and international cooperation, Captain Finley’s dedication to advancing maritime goals was commended by the IMO Secretary-General. His acceptance speech highlighted the importance of collaboration.
Mumbai recently hosted the ISWAN seminar 2024 at the Maritime Training Institute, bringing together maritime stakeholders to address pressing issues affecting seafarers and their families. With various discussions spanning family support, fraudulent crew agents, and decarbonization impacts, the seminar emphasized industry collaboration to improve welfare initiatives and support seafarers’ well-being.
The Northern Lights JV has received the first of four CO2 transport ships, the Northern Pioneer, from Dalian Shipbuilding Industry (DSIC). This vessel is designed to transport liquefied CO2 from Europe to the Northern Lights terminal in Norway. It marks a significant milestone as the first company to offer commercial CO2 transport and storage services.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal has introduced the “Harit Sagar” Green Port Guidelines to reduce carbon intensity in major ports. The guidelines offer incentives for sustainability, such as discounts on berth fees for eco-friendly ships. State Pollution Control Boards monitor environmental compliance.
The historic Bali Jatra festival, celebrating Odisha’s maritime legacy, made its debut in the UK at Townley Grammar School, Bexley. Hosted by the Odisha Society of United Kingdom (OSUK), the event attracted over 500 attendees, including dignitaries, cultural figures, and community leaders from both the UK and India.
The Cruise Bharat Mission launched by the central government aims to boost cruise tourism in India, targeting one million passengers and 400,000 jobs by 2029. The mission includes financial incentives, relaxing cabotage laws, and establishing a special fund. Three phases will focus on developing new cruise terminals, marinas, and destinations.
India is gearing up to strengthen its presence in the global merchant shipping sector by hosting the first-ever Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue in New Delhi. With representatives from over 60 countries expected to participate, the conference aims to showcase India’s growing role in international maritime affairs and trade.
A recent report from UNIDIR suggests the need for a dedicated UN body on maritime security. Current structures lack the mandate to address global maritime issues effectively. The report proposes a new mechanism to coordinate efforts. Dr. Bueger emphasizes the importance of structured initiatives to enhance maritime security and ensure global stability.
