India Launches First Domestic Coastal Green Shipping Corridor: A Step Towards Sustainable Maritime Logistics
Key Ideas
- India is set to launch its first domestic coastal green shipping corridor connecting Deendayal Port with VOC Port, aiming for operation within the next three to six months.
- The initiative involves collaboration between VOC Port Authority, Deendayal Port Authority, and the Shipping Corporation of India, focusing on integrating green fuels like methanol.
- Key discussions included deploying container ships powered by green methanol, developing bunkering infrastructure, and estimating cargo volumes to ensure long-term viability.
- The corridor signifies India's commitment to align the maritime sector with global sustainability goals and become a leader in green port and shipping innovation.
In a significant move towards decarbonizing maritime logistics, India is preparing to launch its first domestic coastal green shipping corridor linking Deendayal Port (Kandla) on the west coast with V O Chidambaranar (VOC) Port in Thoothukudi. The corridor, expected to be operational within the next three to six months, is a collaborative effort between various port authorities and the Shipping Corporation of India. The integration of green fuels like methanol is a central feature of this initiative, with both ports gearing up to produce, store, and distribute cleaner alternatives. VOC Port, already producing green hydrogen on a small scale, is leading India's port-led green energy push, while Kandla Port aims to start producing 1 MW of green hydrogen by March 2026. Discussions have focused on deploying container ships powered by green methanol, developing bunkering infrastructure, and estimating cargo volumes to ensure the corridor's commercial and environmental viability. This step underscores India's commitment to global sustainability goals in the maritime sector and its aspiration to excel in green port and shipping innovation.