Vizhinjam Port authorities are set to implement a dynamic mooring system next month, enhancing operational efficiency. With machinery delivered and staff training planned, this innovative system will secure vessels amidst tidal changes, significantly reducing downtime and vessel turnaround time. This advancement aims to boost container throughput and strengthen India’s shipping competitiveness.
Swedish shipping company Furetank has secured significant biogas supplies, enabling its EU fleet to operate entirely on renewable energy. This achievement follows a decade of efforts toward sustainability. The FuelEU Maritime regulation facilitates biomethane injection and extraction across Europe, supporting Furetank’s transition to fossil-free operations by 2025.
Japanese shipping giant Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) is partnering with Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) to build and operate two very large ethane carriers (VLECs), ensuring stable feedstock supply for ONGC Petro Additions Ltd. (OPaL) in Dahej, Gujarat. Each carrier will cost approximately $370 million, with delivery expected by mid-2028.
Skuld Club recently highlighted the critical risks of fatigue onboard vessels, stressing its detrimental effects on crew health and operational safety. Prolonged exertion, disrupted sleep, and high stress contribute to impaired performance and increased accident risks. To address this, Skuld advocates for adherence to IMO rest hour guidelines and improved crew wellbeing practices.
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.
A significant electrical fire at HD Hyundai Samho shipyard in South Korea lasted nearly nine hours, causing extensive damage. The blaze began late on July 28 in an underground tunnel housing a power substation, shortly after workers left for vacation. Fortunately, no casualties were reported as operations were temporarily halted.
JSW Infrastructure, part of the $24 billion JSW Group, has secured a 30-year concession to renovate two berths at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Dock. They will pay ₹4,678 per container in royalties, surpassing Adani Group in bidding. This project marks JSW’s initial venture into Bengal’s port and logistics sector.
Fingrid announced that the Estlink 2 power cable, damaged last December, will resume operations on June 25, earlier than the expected July 15. The rapid progress on repairs follows a maritime incident involving a ship snagging its anchor on the cable, highlighting Fingrid’s commitment to restoring vital infrastructure.
The Mormugao Port Authority has suspended operations amid a developing cyclonic system off Goa’s coast. The Indian Meteorological Department warned of adverse weather, including heavy rainfall and strong winds. Strict monsoon protocols are in place, prohibiting small crafts and enforcing enhanced safety measures to mitigate risks during this hazardous season.
India has authorized three Russian insurers, including Sberbank’s insurance unit, to provide marine coverage for ships at its ports. This decision supports Moscow’s oil supplies to India, its largest seaborne oil market after China. The permits for these insurers are valid until February 20, 2026, despite ongoing sanctions.
A consortium led by Damen, TU Delft, and other partners has launched the Maritime AI Innovation Lab to revolutionize the maritime industry. By combining physical modeling, AI techniques, and real-world data, the lab aims to improve ship design, reduce fuel consumption, and enhance safety. Interested companies can join workshops to drive innovation in maritime technology.
DP World is set to launch ship-leasing operations in India with the establishment of a subsidiary in GIFT City. The company plans to start with four ships, with options for Indian-flagged and international vessels. With tax incentives and increasing activity in the sector, DP World joins other major players in vessel ownership, operation, and chartering in India.
Kerala’s Minister VN Vasavan shared that the Gateway Container operation at Vizhinjam port would begin in four months. Discussions are progressing for installing container scanners. Recent data showed 215 ships docking with 4,22,846 TEU handled. The upcoming phases for the Transportunship Harbor at Tiefsee port were approved.
Maharashtra’s Finance Minister Ajit Pawar announced that Vadhvan port in Palghar will be operational by 2030, alongside plans for a third Mumbai airport and a bullet train station. The state budget aims for Rs 40 lakh crore in investments and 50 lakh jobs, positioning Maharashtra as a key industrial hub.
The delayed expansion of the Jaya Container Terminal (JCT) at the Port of Colombo has led to increased costs and the need for new gantry cranes. Originally estimated at Rs 5 billion, the project now is projected to cost Rs 10 billion. The terminal’s extension aims to modernize and expand, with an anchorage increase.
