India's Green Wave: Sonowal Launches Electric Tug Revolution

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, has unveiled cutting-edge shipbuilding machinery and launched the Green Tug Transition Programme at Cochin Shipyard. He emphasized that "the indigenous development of hybrid and electric propulsion tugs not only represents a significant technological breakthrough but also symbolizes India’s growing leadership in the global green maritime movement."

The Minister inaugurated the ProArc CNC Plasma Cum Oxy Fuel Plate Cutting Machine, an Industry 4.0-ready system designed for real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and enhanced production efficiency. This machine aligns with the objectives of the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) 2.0, aiming to further strengthen Cochin Shipyard’s world-class shipbuilding capabilities.

Sonowal also presided over the steel cutting ceremony for two green tugs, the first of 16 vessels planned under the Ministry’s Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP), a flagship sustainability initiative. These hybrid and electric propulsion tugs are being built by Cochin Shipyard, making it the first Indian company to do so, in collaboration with Robert Allan, the Indian Register of Shipping, and other global experts. The Minister referred to the project as a “transformative leap in India’s shipbuilding and green maritime journey,” emphasizing its alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

Additionally, the Minister reviewed progress on India’s largest trailer suction hopper dredger, currently under construction at Cochin Shipyard for the Dredging Corporation of India in partnership with IHC Holland. This vessel is expected to be a strategic asset that will reduce dependence on foreign dredging services, while also enhancing coastal access and strengthening maritime infrastructure.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.