The containership ONE Henry Hudson has returned to the Port of Los Angeles after a successful firefighting effort. Earlier this week, a cargo fire broke out in lower-deck compartments, necessitating a complex response involving nearly 200 firefighters. Crews are now preparing to safely offload cargo and firefighting water.
A significant fire broke out on the containership ONE HENRY HUDSON at the Port of Los Angeles on November 21. All 23 crew members were safely evacuated. The incident prompted nearly 200 emergency responders to tackle the flames, which spread through multiple lower decks, causing substantial operational disruptions at the port.
Susanta Kumar Purohit, Chairperson of the V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, addressed the media in Madurai about the upcoming India Maritime Week 2025. He highlighted the port’s achievements, ongoing projects, and future green initiatives aimed at sustainability, including a Green Hydrogen Pilot Project and plans for a 6 MW wind farm.
Adani Vizhinjam Port Company has secured initial approval from the Customs and Central Excise Department to handle export-import cargo at Vizhinjam Port. Final clearance from Kochi Customs is expected soon. This approval marks Vizhinjam as a significant trade gateway, encouraging customs firms to establish a presence at the port.
On September 11, 2025, the Port Authority of Bilbao joined the Waterborne Technology Platform, a European forum for maritime transport innovation. This collaboration unites stakeholders to advance clean, competitive, and safe waterborne transport, focusing on decarbonisation and digitalisation, while enhancing efficiency and driving funding for sustainable maritime solutions.
The Visakhapatnam Port Authority has launched premium domestic cruise services from its state-of-the-art International Cruise Terminal, enhancing coastal tourism in India. The luxury Cordelia Cruise is set to embark on its maiden journey on July 2, 2025, optimizing passenger experiences and establishing Visakhapatnam as a key maritime hub.
On June 24, an explosion at Shannon Foynes Port injured two crew members aboard the chemical tanker Bow Hercules. Occurring during routine maintenance, the blast, linked to a gas cylinder, left a 40-year-old and a 60-year-old from the Philippines with serious injuries. Emergency services responded swiftly, transporting the injured to hospitals.
VO Chidambaranar Port in Thoothukudi is poised to sign an MOU with NTPC to advance a 1 MW green hydrogen project. Ongoing studies for a Green Corridor involve collaboration with the EU and ports of Singapore and Rotterdam. The port is also modernizing its facilities and implementing renewable energy projects.
V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority is propelling South India’s economic growth, targeting 50 million tonnes of cargo and 1 million TEUs this year. With major infrastructure upgrades and the launch of India’s first Green Hydrogen Pilot Plant, the port is set to become a vital maritime hub under the Gati Shakti initiative and Maritime Vision 2030.
Reports from Bangladesh describe a “brutal robbery” on the cargo ship Shejyoti at Mongla port. On May 26, 14 armed robbers boarded, tying up the crew and stealing around $40,000 in fuel and $18,000 in equipment. Three crew members were injured and required First Aid during the incident.
A recent U.S. military strike on Ras Isa’s fueling infrastructure killed at least 80, raising concerns about seafarer safety at Ras Isa Port amidst ongoing clashes. The UKMTO warns vessels face significant risks, advising ships to reconsider operations near ports impacted by military action. The situation remains tense following a ceasefire announcement.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, revealed plans for a port modernization program with the Nigerian Ports Authority focusing on Apapa and Tincan Island ports. This initiative aims to enhance port infrastructure, reduce turnaround time, and address challenges in the maritime sector. Oyetola emphasized the importance of a holistic approach.
Singapore will mark 60 years of independence on 9 August, showcasing its transformation from a trading port to a global maritime powerhouse. The city-state’s shipowning sector has flourished, contributing over $5 billion annually to the economy. With top maritime rankings globally, Singapore’s success story reflects innovation, sustainability, and strategic positioning in the industry.
Operations at Taiwan’s Keelung port have resumed after an oil spill during bunkering disrupted activities. The spill fouled four containerships, a cruise ship, and pilot boats. Booms were used to contain the spill caused by an overflow from a barge connection. Cleanup efforts were underway, with delays and impacts on departures reported.
French dockworkers unions have decided to suspend their “dead port” strike planned for March 18 to ease tensions with the government. The strikes began in January over retirement reforms, including raising the retirement age. Dockworkers want exemptions due to the physical demands of their work. The unions will review progress on March 25.
