Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of MoPSW & AYUSH, virtually inaugurates the groundbreaking ‘Ocean Grace’ tug and a Medical Mobile Unit at Paradip Port, emphasising Atmanirbhar Bharat and sustainable maritime practices.
Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of MoPSW & AYUSH, digitally inaugurated the first-ever Made-in-India ASTDS Tug named ‘Ocean Grace’ and a Medical Mobile Unit (MMU) at Paradip Port on March 2, 2024. The tug, constructed by Cochin Shipyard under MoPSW, symbolises India’s commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat, showcasing advanced maritime engineering and a bollard pull of 60 tonnes. The MMU is part of Paradip Port’s corporate social responsibility, providing a wide range of healthcare services to the local communities.
During the virtual event, Sonowal highlighted Paradip Port’s exemplary progress under PM Modi’s leadership and praised its commitment to efficiency and excellence in EXIM traffic management. He underscored the importance of ‘Ocean Grace,’ built at a cost of ₹45 crores, as a landmark in maritime infrastructure excellence, contributing to years of seamless port operations.
The ASTDS tug is the first of its kind, powered by NIGATA main engines and a Power Z-Peller ZP Propulsion engine, designed for optimal efficiency and reliability. The Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP) aims to convert 50 percent of all tugs into Green Tugs by 2030, aligning with the vision to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in shipping.
Under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, the Decarbonisation Cell plans to pioneer cutting-edge technology vessels, introducing electric water taxis, hybrid electric Ro-Ro ferries, and green hydrogen or ammonia-powered tugs. The vision extends to sustainable maritime practices and environmental stewardship.
In Odisha, the Sagarmala Programme drives infrastructural development along the coast, monitoring 53 projects worth ₹54,500 Crores. Paradip Port’s expansion, especially the Western Dock project, aims to enhance its capacity to over 300 MTPA in the next two years.
Paradip Port’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility is evident in initiatives like the MMU, costing ₹48 LPA to operate, providing healthcare to underprivileged communities. The port’s expansion and CSR activities showcase a dedication to holistic development, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
