Indian Ports to go Green in the next few years

The Ministry of Ports has launched ‘Green Tug Transition Program’ (GTTP) that will convert all tugboats working in the Ports into green tugs. The plan is to expand the exercise of conversion of tugboats into green tugs into full-fledged manufacturing of these all important boats in the country that are essential elements of any port, helping in the mooring or berthing operation of a ship by either towing or pushing a vessel towards the port.

Announcing the launch of the GTTP, union minister of ports, Sarbananda Sonowal said that plan is afoot to make India as the ‘Global hub for building Green Ships’ by 2030. “We have been working towards strengthening our efforts towards building self-reliance in Green Ship Building as well as installation of green solutions in all possible areas under the Ministry’s purview. We hope to become the global hub of Green Ship Building by 2030 as we witness tremendous business potential and yet remain completely dedicated towards building a greener world,” Sonowal said.

The minister said that GTTP will first convert tugs into green hybrid tugs powered by hybrid propulsion systems and subsequently adopting non-fossil fuel solutions.

The ministry has set a target for the initial green tugs to start working in all major ports by 2025. At least, 50 per cent of all the tugs are likely to be converted into green tugs by 2030, which will considerably reduce emission, as the country move towards achieving sustainable development.

The Centre will also engage in developing the regulatory framework and alternative technology adoption roadmap for green shipping in India. The centre, housed within the TERI complex in Gurugram, will work towards meeting the obligations under the Paris Agreement.

The ministry has already identified Paradip Port, Deendayal Port and V.O. Chidambaram Port Tuticorin to be developed as Hydrogen Hubs – capable of handling, storing and generation of green hydrogen by 2030. With the development of these infrastructure, India will be able to export Green Hydrogen, produced in the country using renewable sources, with the support of NCoEGPS in technology and market leadership.