Recent maritime incidents off Kerala’s coast, including a shipwreck and vessel fire, have heightened concerns over environmental impacts and maritime security. Experts urge enhanced monitoring of vessel traffic due to the new Vizhinjam port, advocating for a long-term system to assess the effects of chemical pollution on marine ecosystems.
Recent ship accidents off the Kerala coast may impact cargo insurance providers, though soft cargo premium rates might remain stable. The incidents involved feeder vessels, reducing Indian insurers’ risk exposure. However, vessel owners could incur higher costs, particularly for hull and protection & indemnity insurance, as environmental concerns arise from these accidents.
The Indian Coast Guard is battling a major fire aboard the MV Wan Hai 503, a Singaporean-flagged container ship off Kerala. Following an explosion, four crew members are missing, while 18 were rescued with injuries. The situation worsens as more containers ignite, raising environmental concerns amid ongoing firefighting efforts.
Containers from the MSC ELSA III, which sank near Alappuzha, have been spotted on Kollam’s coast, raising alerts. Nine empty containers were found, with more possible. Local authorities advised evacuations and warned fishermen to stay 20 nautical miles away. Emergency teams are deployed to address potential environmental hazards.
The Indian Coast Guard has issued a high alert for Kerala due to hazardous freight and oil threatening its coastline. Several dangerous objects were spotted in the Arabian Sea, linked to the cargo ship MSC Elsa 3, which lost significant oil. Authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious objects immediately.
With just four days until the Vizhinjam International Seaport’s commissioning, the Kerala Maritime Board plans to upgrade the adjacent minor port through a public-private partnership. Pending state government approval, redevelopment aims to enhance capacity for small and mid-sized ships, integrating it further into regional logistics and ferry services.
Kerala Ports Minister V N Vasavan recently announced that the Vizhinjam transshipment port has handled three lakh TEUs of cargo in a successful six-month trial period. With a cost of Rs 8,867 crore, the port has welcomed 150 ships and managed 85,000 TEUs in January alone, solidifying its position as a key trade gateway for India.
The ambitious National Waterways project in Kerala is nearing completion with a 235 km route from Akculam to Chettuva. This initiative is part of the larger West Coast Waterway project, aiming to boost transportation, trade, and tourism in the state by 2026. The official opening is expected in April or May, benefiting tourism significantly.
Kochi Metro Rail Ltd. (KMRL) is looking to expand its successful eco-friendly water transport system, known as the Kochi Water Metro, to 18 locations across India. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has appointed KMRL to conduct a feasibility study for implementing similar systems in various regions. This move highlights Kerala’s innovative strength.
The Vizhinjam Conclave 2025, scheduled for January 28 and 29 at the Hyatt Regency in Thiruvananthapuram, aims to explore industrial opportunities linked to the Vizhinjam International Seaport. With over 300 delegates and 50 investors expected to attend, the event will focus on signing at least 20 MoUs to boost economic growth in the region.
During the Kerala Maritime Education Conference (KMEC 2024), State Minister of Ports V. N. Vasavan stressed the significance of the public-private partnership model in developing skilled professionals for the marine industry. He highlighted the need to enhance maritime colleges in Kerala through this approach, citing successful examples like Vizhinjam Port.
Kerala’s Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, announced a significant update on the Vizhinjam Port project, extending its completion to December 2024. With plans to expand capacity to 30 lakh TEU by 2028, the project is crucial for Kerala’s economic growth. Stakeholders must meet deadlines to avoid financial penalties and fulfill the state’s vision.
India’s first hydrogen fuel cell ferry, launched by PM Modi, is a milestone for sustainable maritime transport. With zero emissions and noise, this vessel showcases India’s commitment to a green future. Cochin Shipyard’s innovative project aims to lead the way in reducing global warming and achieving net zero emissions by 2070.
