India has inaugurated its first domestically developed Drive-Through Cargo Scanner (ICS) at Jawaharlal Nehru Custom House, marking a significant milestone in trade security. This collaborative project by BARC and JNCH employs advanced technologies to enhance efficiency, aiming for a 50% reduction in operational costs and supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Jana Marine Services has made history by becoming the first to receive the CR-Ex cyber resilience notation for its Self-Elevating Units: JANA 505, 508, and 509. This recognition enhances cyber safety protocols in accordance with IACS standards, showcasing technological advancement and supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 for economic diversification.
Mundra Port, India’s largest commercial port, has exported advanced locomotives to Morebaya, Guinea, marking a milestone for Indian manufacturing in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The inaugural shipment of four locomotives, produced by Wabtec in Bihar, reflects India’s growing prowess in the global rail equipment market.
Mormugao Port has achieved a major milestone by becoming India’s first accredited green port, announced by MPA Chairman N. Vinodkumar during a roadshow for India Maritime Week 2025. The port promotes sustainability through incentive-based tariff discounts linked to Environmental Ship Index scores and has initiated a solar power project to reduce its carbon footprint.
Navi Mumbai is set to transform its tourism landscape with the development of its first international marina in Belapur Sector 15. Spearheaded by the Maharashtra Maritime Board, this project aims to boost marine tourism, create jobs, and position the city as a key player in the global maritime industry.
India’s first green methanol bunkering and refuelling facility broke ground at VOC Port, by SOPAN Group and VOCPA. Inaugurated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the 750 m³ pilot terminal advances Net Zero 2070 and Maritime India Vision 2030 goals, promising up to 95% ship CO2 cuts and a maritime hub.
Auckland’s push for greener transport advances as McMullen and Wing launch sea trials of a new all-electric ferry for Auckland Transport. Built with lightweight carbon-fibre and powered by fast-charging batteries, the vessel promises sustainable, high-speed service for up to 230 passengers on the Auckland–Half Moon Bay route.
Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) has made history by becoming India’s first port to engage in automobile transshipment. On August 27, 2025, it handled its inaugural shipment of 550 cars from Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, marking a significant step in enhancing operational capabilities and positioning itself as a key hub in the global trade sector.
Marina Starovoitova has made history as the first woman to command a nuclear icebreaker, the Yamal. Announced on August 20, 2025, during the Dreamer concert in Nizhny Novgorod, her leadership marks a significant milestone in Russia’s nuclear industry, emphasizing security and efficient navigation in Arctic waters.
Axpo has successfully completed Spain’s first ship-to-ship bio-LNG bunkering at the Port of Algeciras, delivering over 4,000 m³ of ISCC-certified bio-LNG to the CMA CGM FORT BOURBON. This milestone enhances Axpo’s commitment to sustainable LNG solutions and supports the growing demand for cleaner marine fuels in the Iberian market.
India has begun constructing its first AI-equipped patrol vessel, the Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV), to bolster maritime security. At 384 feet long and displacing 2,700 tons, it will support up to 121 personnel and achieve speeds of 23 knots, enhancing rapid response and extended patrol capabilities.
The delivery of Brands Hatch marks a significant milestone in maritime innovation, being the first tanker equipped with BAR Technologies’ WindWings. This technology aims to reduce fuel consumption by 1,200 tonnes annually, cutting CO₂ emissions by over 3,800 tons. Union Maritime is leading a fleet transformation towards sustainability and efficiency.
On May 14, the Netherlands unveiled the Carbon Destroy 1, the first European-designed carrier for liquefied CO2. This vessel, built at Royal Niestern Sander shipyard, can transport 5,000 tons of CO2, supporting the Greensand Future project. It aims to create a “virtual pipeline” for CO2 storage beneath the North Sea.
On May 13, Japan launched the first methanol-fueled bulk carrier, the Green Future. Owned by Kambara Kisen and constructed by Tsuneishi Shipbuilding, it features a deadweight tonnage of approximately 65,700. This vessel significantly reduces emissions, showcasing a pivotal shift in the shipping industry’s approach to sustainability.
India is set to inaugurate its first domestic coastal green shipping corridor, connecting Kandla with Thoothukudi. This initiative aims to decarbonize maritime logistics and is expected to be operational within six months. Ports will promote green fuels, including methanol, to power retrofitted vessels, advancing sustainable maritime practices.
