News items selected for weekly newsletter
The last batch of Filipino crew members from the M/V Minoan Courage, attacked by Houthi rebels, safely landed at NAIA Terminal 3. The DMW, OWWA, and other agencies collaborated to ensure the repatriation of all 21 seafarers. The crew will receive necessary support and evaluations to address the traumatic experience at sea.
The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) and SeaTech Solutions International have signed an MoU to approve designs for green tugs and harbour craft. Indian shipyards may now construct electric-powered tugboats designed by SeaTech, with IRS ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The collaboration will support India’s green-tug transition programme and Harit Nauka guidelines.
The North Atlantic right whale, a rare species, has seen a slight increase in population, giving hope to conservationists. Threatened by global warming, ship collisions, and fishing gear entanglement, their numbers dropped to less than 360 in the early 2020s. Efforts are needed to ensure their recovery and long-term survival.
Tunley Environmental raises concerns about the challenges of the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) for the maritime industry. CEO Will Beer stresses the need for compliance to avoid penalties. The directive aims to promote sustainability and energy efficiency, with companies required to enhance reporting on environmental impacts. Failure to comply could result in severe consequences.
Global trade by sea is expected to grow by 2.4% in 2023, reaching 12.29 billion tons. The demand for bulk raw materials and containerized goods is driving this growth. The UNCTAD predicts a modest 2% increase in shipping in 2024, with containerized traffic expected to recover significantly.
MAN Energy Solutions is at the forefront of sustainable technology development with its ‘AmmoniaMot 2’ project, creating a dual-fuel test engine running on ammonia. Supported by industry and research partners, the initiative aims to advance ammonia as a carbon-free fuel for maritime and industrial applications, contributing to the decarbonization of the sector.
The maritime industry is gearing up for the use of ammonia as a marine fuel by 2025-2026. While it offers environmental benefits, safety concerns arise due to its toxic nature. A survey by the MMMCZCS revealed that most in the maritime community are open to working with ammonia-fueled vessels with proper training and certification.
New research reveals that over one-third of seafarers suffer from seasickness, impacting their personal and professional lives. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Despite the high prevalence, many do not seek treatment. The study emphasizes the need to address this issue to improve well-being and reduce the risk of accidents at sea.
Orix Corporation and Sumitomo Heavy Industries are collaborating on a new project to explore the feasibility of using soft sails for wind-assisted propulsion on a larger bulker ship. This innovative approach represents a departure from traditional methods, with North Sails Japan developing a furling sail made of UltraPE laminated cloth for testing.
In the last decade, cargo transportation via waterways has seen a significant sixfold increase, reaching 132.9 million tonnes in FY24. With ambitious government targets to transport 200 million tonnes by FY30 and 500 million tonnes by FY2047, projects like the Jal Marg Vikas Project are crucial in enhancing the efficiency of waterway transportation in India.
A study by Norbert Bulten at Wärtsilä emphasized the importance of considering various operating conditions for vessel performance. Using CFD simulations, the research compared a gate rudder concept to a semi-spade rudder on a Kamsarmax bulker, showing improved fuel efficiency and maneuverability. These findings suggest a shift towards more efficient vessel design.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Minister of State Shantanu Thakur highlighted the positive impact of lighthouse tourism on local communities and India’s maritime heritage. The Government aims to revitalize historic lighthouses, creating vibrant spaces for tourism, culture, and learning. Ongoing initiatives are transforming iconic lighthouses into centers of recreation and community engagement.
The Directorate General of Shipping in India has introduced new requirements for vessels at Indian ports. Port authorities must now verify the legitimacy of P&I insurance certificates, including premium payments, through approved insurers and IG Clubs. A draft notice mandates electronic submission of documents through the MSW by 2025 for transparency and efficiency.
The Swedish Club, a maritime insurance specialist, has reported over $25 million in claims due to heavy weather incidents in the past five years. To address this issue, they have introduced a new Heavy Weather Alert tool to provide timely loss prevention advice to insured vessels operating near severe weather patterns.
The Cabinet, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024, and the repeal of Part XIV of the Merchant Shipping Act 1958, except for section 411A. This decision is set to benefit various stakeholders in the shipping industry, aiming to streamline operations and enhance the integration of inland waterway.
