Cochin Shipyard Ltd. (CSL) and the Adani Group have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to manufacture environmentally friendly tugs, a major step toward promoting domestic shipbuilding and enhancing CSL's green credentials. As the first tug to be constructed in India in compliance with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways' (MoPSW) Approved Standard Tug Design Specifications (ASTDS), this partnership represents a significant turning point for the country's shipbuilding sector.
After CSL successfully delivered the first of two tugs that Ocean Sparkle Ltd. had ordered—which are currently owned by Adani Harbour Services Ltd.—the Memorandum of Understanding was signed. The main purpose of these 62-ton bollard pull Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) tugs, developed by famous Canadian tug designer Robert Allan Ltd., is to assist ships and perform harbor towing at Indian ports. They are also outfitted to do coastal towing and firefighting duties.
The cooperation between the Adani Group and CSL is in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which focuses on encouraging local manufacturing and self-reliance. In addition to enhancing India's shipbuilding capabilities, the development of these green tugs will show the sector's dedication to environmental sustainability.
The utilization of MoPSW-developed ASTDS guarantees standardization and compliance with strict performance and safety requirements. This standardization will simplify the procurement process while also fostering a competitive local shipbuilding sector.
