The government presented a bill in Lok Sabha on December 2 to revamp the maritime sector with the Coastal Shipping Act 2024. This legislation aims to boost traffic at key ports, enhance efficiency, and support domestic shipping companies. The bill proposes innovative measures to simplify regulations and promote coastal trade without the need for commercial licenses.
The Kerala Maritime Board is making significant investments in ports along the coast, with a focus on increasing draught and infrastructure. Jetties and cranes are being set up at key ports, including Beypore, with plans to improve facilities and security measures to meet international standards.
Paradip Port Authority (PPA) has achieved record-breaking year-on-year traffic growth of 10.02 million tonnes, surpassing Deendayal Port’s previous records. The port is also becoming a hub for coastal shipping in the country, handling 21,665 rakes, 2,710 ships, and increasing its operating surplus by 16.44 percent.
The workshop highlighted technology and practices for efficient ship repair and building, emphasizing the need for workforce capacity and talent development. Secretary Shri TK Ramchandran, IAS emphasized government commitment to growth. The workshop promoted industry collaboration and discussed the goals set in Maritime India Vision 2030. Discussion topics included infrastructure, green initiatives, and training models.
A Mumbai-based shipping company is interested in acquiring two ships for coastal shipping services as part of a plan to divert containerized cargo movement from roads to waterways. The state government is considering an incentive policy to promote coastal shipping. The company also proposed a 50% fuel subsidy until the project breaks even.
