Japanese and Indian port leaders explore PPPs, decarbonisation, and digitalisation under Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
A 15-member delegation from the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH), representing global seaports, concluded a two-day visit to Chennai Port on October 22–23, focused on cooperation in port modernisation, decarbonisation, and sustainable infrastructure.
Led by Secretary General Masahiko Furuichi, the delegation included senior officials and maritime experts from the Yokohama, Tokyo, Osaka, Kobe, Nagoya, and Tomakomai ports; the Overseas Coastal Area Development Institute of Japan; and Kyoto and Kanagawa Universities.
Technical Workshop on Sustainability and Efficiency
A workshop on October 23 brought together senior officers from Chennai Port Authority (ChPA), Kamarajar Port (KPL), and IAPH. Discussions covered:
- Enhancing Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs) for efficient port development.
- Strengthening hinterland connectivity and logistics integration.
- Decarbonisation and shore power initiatives.
- Environmental sustainability and community engagement.
India–Japan Partnership in Maritime Growth
Sunil Paliwal, Chairperson of ChPA, KPL, and the Indian Ports Association, highlighted the India–Japan maritime partnership and sustainable progress at Chennai and Kamarajar Ports through digitalisation, infrastructure, community engagement, and green growth under Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
“Our ports are not just gateways for trade; they are catalysts for innovation and sustainable community development,” Paliwal said.
Kamarajar Port’s Green Transition
JP Irene Cynthia, MD, KPL, shared updates on LNG bunkering, shore power supply, the Green Tug Transition programme, and connectivity enhancement projects, reflecting the port’s commitment to sustainability and capacity expansion.
The IAPH delegation lauded India’s proactive approach to digital port ecosystems, renewable energy integration, and emissions reduction technologies, strengthening India–Japan maritime cooperation under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
Source: BL
