Adani Ports orders 8 tugs from Cochin Shipyard for Rs 450cr
Adani Ports Boosts Maritime Sector with New Tugs
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), the largest integrated transport utility company in India, has made a significant announcement. The company will procure eight advanced harbour tugs from Cochin Shipyard. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance local manufacturing and self-reliance in the maritime sector. The move aligns with the Indian government‘s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. This procurement is not just about acquiring new vessels; it represents a commitment to improving the country’s maritime infrastructure.
Investment in Local Manufacturing
The total contract value for the procurement of these eight tugs is estimated at Rs 450 crore. This investment is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy. By choosing Cochin Shipyard, APSEZ is supporting a public sector unit (PSU) that has a strong reputation for quality and reliability. The tugs are scheduled for delivery between December 2026 and May 2028. This timeline allows for careful construction and quality assurance, ensuring that the vessels meet international safety and efficiency standards.
Ashwani Gupta, the Whole-time Director and CEO of APSEZ, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. He stated that it reflects the company’s commitment to enhancing maritime infrastructure in India. Gupta expressed confidence in the capabilities of Indian PSUs, highlighting that local manufacturing can achieve world-class standards. This initiative not only aims to improve operational efficiency but also contributes to the national goal of self-reliance in various sectors, including maritime operations.
Enhancing Port Operations
The introduction of these new tugs is expected to significantly improve the efficiency and safety of vessel operations in Indian ports. APSEZ has a history of successful collaborations with Cochin Shipyard. Previously, the company contracted the construction of two 62-tonne bollard pull azimuthing stern drive (ASD) tugs. These tugs were delivered ahead of schedule and are currently operational at Paradeep Port and New Mangalore Port. This track record demonstrates the reliability of Cochin Shipyard as a partner in maritime projects.
In addition to the eight new tugs, the construction of three more ASD tugs is currently underway. This brings the total order to 13 tugs, which will provide a younger and more efficient fleet for the port sector. The focus on modernizing the fleet is crucial for meeting the increasing demands of maritime trade. With these advancements, APSEZ aims to ensure that its operations remain competitive and capable of handling the growing volume of cargo in Indian ports.
