On August 16, Arab nations condemned an attack on a UAE oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. Bahrain and Kuwait labeled the strike a violation of international law, threatening maritime security. They urged the UN Security Council to ensure navigation safety and called for Iran to halt its assaults on commercial vessels.
Gujarat is set to boost maritime tourism by modernizing 17 lighthouses, transforming them into vibrant cultural hubs. Upgrades include gardens, cafes, and amphitheaters, enhancing visitor experiences. This initiative, part of a national effort, aims to celebrate Gujarat’s maritime heritage while attracting tourists to these historically significant sites.
The European Commission’s proposal to include YSI Recyclers LLP and Shree Ram Vessel Scrap Pvt Ltd in the European List of Ship Recycling Facilities marks a historic move for Indian shipyards. Situated in Alang, Gujarat, these facilities meet stringent environmental standards, potentially allowing EU-flagged vessels to be recycled in India for the first time.
Cavotec has been selected to install India’s first Automated Mooring System at Gateway Terminals India in Navi Mumbai. This advanced MoorMaster technology will replace traditional mooring ropes, enhancing operational efficiency, improving safety, and reducing vessel turnaround times. The system aims to save significant operational hours annually and accommodate larger ships simultaneously.
India is set to demonstrate its maritime leadership at SMM Hamburg 2026, taking place from September 1 to 4. A distinguished delegation, including senior policymakers, will showcase advancements in maritime infrastructure, technology, and sustainability initiatives, emphasizing India’s commitment to enhancing international collaboration and investment in the maritime sector.
Several marine insurance companies have been alerted by reinsurers about the cancellation of war risk coverage in the Indian Ocean, Gulf of Aden, and Red Sea due to escalating security concerns. Skuld and West of England P&I are among those affected, with cancellations effective from August 16, 2026, impacting assureds operating in these regions.
India has launched the BMIP, a government-backed P&I insurance scheme, with its first policies issued in July 2026. Initially covering the Shipping Corporation of India, this scheme addresses critical insurance needs for Indian shipowners, mitigating reliance on international clubs and enhancing coverage against liabilities like crew injuries and pollution incidents.
The Vizhinjam port in Kerala has received approval for crew change operations for various vessels. The Kerala Maritime Board plans to upgrade facilities, including a lounge and facilitation center, to enhance crew experiences. These developments aim to accommodate increased activity and generate stable revenue, benefiting the local economy and hospitality sector.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has revised its oil supply and demand forecast due to renewed conflicts around the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting Gulf exports. Regional oil production increased but remains significantly below pre-war levels. Demand estimates have also declined, with global inventories plummeting and market stability threatened.
Wirana Shipping has observed a positive shift in India’s ship recycling market, fueled by rising steel demand. Recent reports indicate increasing steel prices, with local plate prices up by $4/MT. While Bangladesh’s market struggles with sluggish demand and financing issues, optimism in India suggests potential for improved recycler prices ahead.
NAPA has launched a digital checklist system to enhance onboard operations, with HX Expeditions as an early adopter. This innovative tool replaces traditional checklists with dynamic workflows, ensuring correct procedural sequences. Each action is logged automatically, streamlining processes and improving real-time information sharing between ship and shore, boosting operational efficiency.
On Tuesday, India’s High Commissioner to Seychelles, Rohit Rathish, delivered five laser radial boats to the Chief of Defence Forces, fulfilling a promise made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his June visit. This initiative enhances the Seychelles Defence Force’s seamanship skills, reinforcing the maritime partnership between India and Seychelles.
The All India Seafarers Union has expressed alarm over rising C1/D visa rejections for Indian seafarers aiming to work on cruise ships. They reported an influx of inquiries from both new and experienced seafarers facing denials, warning that even one rejection can severely impact a seafarer’s career and future opportunities.
Coastal shipping in India is undergoing a transformative shift, propelled by new policies and infrastructural advancements. With an 11,098 km coastline, its potential is now being harnessed, demonstrated by a projected cargo increase from 119.5 million tonnes in FY15 to 213.5 million tonnes by FY26, thanks to the Coastal Shipping Act of 2025.
Sasikumar highlighted the challenges large vessels face, noting the limited crew size makes continuous deck monitoring difficult. He raised concerns about rising fire incidents, particularly from lithium-ion batteries, which can escalate rapidly. Dtyle.AI’s edge devices provide timely fire detection, demonstrating effectiveness even in low bandwidth conditions during a recent pilot at Chennai Port.
