According to the Maeil Business Newspaper, Jeju and North Gyeongsang are identified as the regions in South Korea with the highest incidence of maritime accidents in 2024. The increase in accidents calls for improved safety measures and cooperation among authorities to address the root causes and enhance maritime safety in these areas.
Minister Kang Do-hyung vows to implement tougher safety regulations to prevent maritime accidents. Private sector groups, like the Korea Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives, are also taking action to raise awareness and educate stakeholders. These efforts highlight the growing importance of improving safety standards in the maritime industry to protect lives and prevent future accidents.
Companies going bankrupt and workers losing their jobs is common in capitalist societies. However, abandoned ships present a different scenario. When a ship is left in a foreign port with no support, dwindling supplies, and services shutting down, it signifies a complex situation. Crewmembers are left in uncertainty, relying on welfare agencies.
The South Korean government is investing 222.3 billion KrW ($150 million) to support the construction of 81 environmentally friendly ships. Companies can receive subsidies of up to 30 percent for building eco-friendly vessels, promoting sustainability in the maritime industry. This initiative aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change on a global scale.
Mr. Ashwani Gupta, the CEO of APSEZ, highlighted the company’s collaboration with Cochin Shipyard to enhance India’s maritime infrastructure. The partnership underscores APSEZ’s confidence in India’s PSUs and commitment to supporting the country’s development. By leveraging local manufacturing capabilities and adhering to international standards, APSEZ aims to contribute to India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The recently delivered electric catamaran ferry “Earth” or “Wave” by GRSE to the Ministry of Transport in West Bengal, India, offers a sustainable and comfortable travel option for up to 150 passengers. Powered by a 246 kWh battery, this vessel boasts modern design and eco-conscious features, exemplifying a shift towards cleaner maritime transportation.
The installation of a new pontoon at the Mumbai Port is set to streamline passenger loading and unloading processes, improving efficiency and safety. The upcoming passenger screening software will further enhance security measures, ensuring only authorized individuals access the piers. These initiatives mark a significant step in modernizing operations at the port.
The VMA is reviewing safety protocols at local terminals in response to the use of larger cargo vessels on key trade routes. This initiative aims to ensure compliance with updated standards and enhance safety and efficiency in maritime operations. Adapting infrastructure and protocols is crucial to meet the evolving needs of the shipping industry.
Following a collision involving an Indian Navy speedboat and a ferry carrying over 100 passengers, safety concerns prompted a temporary suspension of ferry operations on the affected route. Authorities emphasized the importance of strict safety measures, including the wearing of life jackets, to ensure passenger well-being. This incident highlighted the need for enhanced safety.
The Neelkamal, a private passenger ship bound for the Elephanta Caves near Mumbai, capsized, causing multiple fatalities. The incident occurred during the popular tourist journey from the Gateway of India. Concerns have been raised about safety measures for such excursions, prompting calls for stricter regulations to protect passengers and crew on similar trips.
The crew of a trawler reported a collision that caused a hole near the stern of the vessel, leading to water entering the boat. Despite efforts to control the flooding, the situation worsened, ultimately resulting in the boat capsizing and sinking three hours later. Fortunately, all nine crew members were rescued.
During welding on a vessel, high flammable gas concentration was discovered due to transferring fuel oil for testing. Lack of safety measures like ventilation led to dangerous conditions. Sparks ignited the gas, causing explosions. This incident stresses the importance of following safety protocols during welding to avoid accidents and fatalities.
The new route launched by Folk Maritime after the India Red Sea service aims to strengthen trade ties with India by facilitating the movement of consumer goods, petrochemicals, and essential commodities. Ports like Mundra and Nhava Sheva play a crucial role in India’s trade activities, making the new route vital for enhancing economic relations.
Asia’s largest shipbuilders are seeing a surge in orders from Western shipowners, with newbuild prices reaching levels comparable to those seen in 2008. Korean and Chinese yards are attracting orders for high-value LNG carriers and container ships. The top 50 shipowners by tonnage account for over half of the capacity on order.
The CEEC denied the company’s request to resume work at the Geoje shipyard due to a lack of safety measures post-accident. The review committee found necessary precautions absent after almost two weeks. Hanwha Ocean shipyard had the highest number of reported deaths in South Korea. Implementing strict safety measures is crucial to prevent tragic incidents.
