The PRANAAM Seafarers Assistance Counter was inaugurated at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on January 21, 2026. This initiative enhances support for Indian seafarers, offering guidance and assistance as they travel. The event highlighted international cooperation in improving seafarers’ travel experiences and showcased India’s maritime heritage. Expansion plans for Terminal 2 are underway.
In 2025, seafarer abandonment surged to 6,223 cases across 410 ships, a 31% increase from the previous year, as per the ITF. Indian seafarers were hit hardest, with 1,125 cases. The ITF demands stricter regulations on ship ownership and calls for unified action to tackle this ongoing crisis.
Mumbai’s Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has acquired a 41.73% equity stake in Sri Lanka’s Colombo Dockyard PLC, marking a key step in its international expansion. The acquisition, involving rights shares from Japan’s Onomichi Dockyard, triggers a mandatory offer for CDPLC’s shareholders, enhancing maritime collaboration between India and Sri Lanka.
The International Chamber of Shipping has introduced the Deck Procedures Guide, enhancing maritime safety by focusing on deck operations. This comprehensive resource addresses cargo handling, mooring, and compliance with key regulations, featuring an interactive risk assessment tool and checklists. It aims to standardize best practices while accommodating specific organizational needs.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Transportation and Construction Engineering, Ltd. (MHI-TC) has successfully delivered the Mitsubishi Marine Bridge (MMB) to Yokohama City. This innovative mobile seaport passenger boarding bridge enhances safety and comfort for cruise passengers, featuring autonomous driving technology and a flexible docking system, while promoting environmental sustainability.
The recent turnaround of Celebrity Millennium at Mumbai’s Ballard Pier underscores the city’s ability to meet global cruise standards while retaining its local charm. With 2,062 guests onboard, this event demonstrated Mumbai’s capacity for high-volume cruise operations, enhancing hospitality and efficiency, and signaling potential for future lucrative itineraries in the Arabian Sea.
Boskalis’ diving support vessel, BOKA Da Vinci, has successfully executed a subsea operation in the northern North Sea, enhancing infrastructure for an INEOS-led carbon capture and storage initiative at the Nini oil and gas field. This operation is a key part of Project Greensand, aimed at facilitating CO₂ storage in Denmark.
The vessel boasts advanced pollution response technology for effective oil spill management. It features an oil recovery system, radar for slick detection, and dedicated booms for diverse operations. With a recovery rate of 300 tons per hour, it ensures rapid and efficient response, safeguarding fragile marine environments against pollution threats.
As India nears its centenary of independence, the Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2047 aims to elevate the nation to a “Global Maritime Hub.” By leveraging technology like Digital Twins, IoT, AI, and Blockchain, India seeks to enhance efficiency, reduce logistics costs, and embrace sustainability in global trade operations.
Incat Tasmania has reached a landmark in maritime history with the harbour trials of Hull 096, the world’s largest battery-electric ship. This 130-meter vessel is now moving under its own battery-electric power, marking a significant advancement in sustainable shipping and electric propulsion for large commercial vessels globally.
Ports and terminals are witnessing a rising demand for biofuels as the global energy landscape shifts towards lower-carbon options. A recent report forecasts the biofuels market to grow from $184.21 billion in 2025 to $326.46 billion by 2035, highlighting the sector’s critical role in sustainable transportation and climate change mitigation.
The Hydromover 2.0, an all-electric light cargo transfer vessel by Incat Crowther, has launched in Singapore. Building on its predecessor, it boasts a 30-ton payload and enhanced energy efficiency. With advanced digital features and a commitment to decarbonization, it marks a significant step forward for Singapore’s harbor craft fleet.
India has secured a $3 billion deal to purchase liquefied natural gas from the UAE, making it the UAE’s top customer. This agreement, established during a meeting between UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to bolster trade and defense relations.
The UK is advancing global decarbonization in shipping with the Maritime Nuclear Consortium, led by Lloyd’s Register. This coalition unites experts to set international standards for nuclear-powered vessels, promising zero carbon emissions and extended operational periods. Key members include Rolls-Royce and Babcock International, aiming for safe nuclear technology adoption in maritime operations.
