India's First Coastal Green Shipping Corridor: Pioneering Sustainable Maritime Transport
Key Ideas
  • India is set to operationalize its first domestic coastal green shipping corridor connecting Kandla and Thoothukudi, aiming to transition to a low-emission shipping network.
  • Retrofitted container vessels powered by green methanol and green hydrogen will be deployed, alongside the establishment of fuel production and bunkering facilities.
  • The corridor not only focuses on fuel transition but also reflects India's commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2070, promoting equitable and environmentally responsible transport infrastructure.
  • The initiative is expected to attract private sector participation, international partnerships, catalyze innovation, and elevate India's leadership in climate-conscious infrastructure development.
India is on the brink of operationalizing its first domestic coastal green shipping corridor that will link Kandla on the western coast to Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu. This corridor, developed jointly by the Deendayal Port Authority and the V O Chidambaranar Port Authority, is a significant step towards transitioning to a low-emission shipping network. The collaboration with the Shipping Corporation of India will see the deployment of retrofitted container vessels powered by green methanol and green hydrogen, sourced from production facilities at both ports. Thoothukudi has already initiated the production of green hydrogen on a pilot basis, with Kandla aiming to produce 1 MW of green hydrogen by the end of the current financial year. These green fuels will not only power the vessels but will also be available for bunkering along the route, fostering a broader transition in marine fuel usage. The corridor's development includes discussions on operational logistics, infrastructure upgrades, and economic modeling to ensure its viability. It is envisioned not only as a means to transition to green fuels but also as a testament to India's commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2070. The initiative is expected to attract private-sector participation, international partnerships, and foster innovation in India's maritime sector. Despite challenges in scaling up fuel production and securing investments for retrofitting, the corridor is poised to drive cooperation and elevate India's role in sustainable maritime transport. This pioneering initiative highlights India's growing leadership in climate-conscious infrastructure development and offers a forward-looking narrative that blends economic resilience with environmental consciousness.
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