Sarbananda Sonowal unveils Green Tug Transition Program, investing INR 1000 crore to replace diesel tugs with zero-emission alternatives, starting October 1, 2024.
On August 16, 2024, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, launched the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for the Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP) in New Delhi. This landmark initiative aims to replace conventional diesel-powered harbour tugs with zero-emission tugs, marking a significant advancement in India’s maritime sustainability efforts.
The GTTP, part of the ‘Panch Karma Sankalp,’ will commence Phase 1 on October 1, 2024, and continue until December 31, 2027. During this period, four major ports—Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, Deendayal Port Authority, Paradip Port Authority, and V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority—are set to procure or charter at least two green tugs each. These tugs will adhere to standardised designs and specifications provided by the Standing Specification Committee (SSC).
The program is expected to involve an investment of approximately INR 1000 crore. Initially, the tugs will be battery-electric, with future provisions for adopting other green technologies like hybrid, methanol, and green hydrogen.
Minister Sonowal emphasised, “The Green Tug Transition Program is a pivotal initiative towards realising our vision of a sustainable and green maritime sector in India. This program not only aligns with our environmental goals but also strengthens our commitment to ‘Make in India,’ promoting domestic innovation and manufacturing in the maritime industry.”
The GTTP will also boost the domestic tug industry, with all tugs built under this program being constructed in Indian shipyards. This aligns with the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and is expected to generate significant employment opportunities in shipbuilding and ship design.
By 2040, all tugs operating in Indian major ports are expected to transition to green technologies, ensuring a standardised, eco-friendly fleet across the nation. Additionally, any new tug built in India for use in Indian ports after 2033 will need to comply with the ASTDS-GTTP standards.
The Green Tug Transition Program supports the Maritime India Vision 2030, which aims to make India a global leader in maritime safety, sustainability, and environmental responsibility. This vision includes ambitious targets such as sourcing 60% of each major port’s power demand from renewable energy and achieving a 30% reduction in carbon emissions per tonne of cargo by 2030.
The GTTP is a testament to the government’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the maritime sector, paving the way for a cleaner, greener future for India’s ports and maritime operations.
