India Begins Construction of Its First All-Electric Green Tug Under GTTP
The steel-cutting ceremony for India’s first All-Electric Green Tug, being built for the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla under the Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP), marked a major step toward transforming the nation’s maritime ecosystem. The ceremony was graced virtually by Shantanu Thakur, Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways; Vijay Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways; Sushil Kumar Singh, IRSME, Chairman, DPA; along with senior officials from DPA Kandla, representatives from Netincon/Ripley, technical experts from Kongsberg, and engineering teams from Atreya Shipyard.
Nilabhra Dasgupta, IRS, Deputy Chairman, and J. K. Rathod, CPES, CVO, DPA, joined via video conference along with officers from the Gandhidham Administrative Office, while other DPA representatives attended the on-site event in Goa.
In line with the vision of “Make in India, Make for the World,” DPA’s all-electric tug will feature a 60-ton bollard pull capacity, ensuring silent operations, zero emissions, and high energy efficiency. This next-generation vessel is expected to set new standards in sustainable maritime logistics.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Union Minister expressed satisfaction over the launch of manufacturing for India’s first green tug, calling it a historic milestone for the maritime sector. He emphasized that the initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Net-Zero vision and India’s commitment to sustainable growth and clean energy transition. The Minister added that the emerging fleet of green tugs will not only enhance India’s maritime strength but will also help establish a strong global presence, reinforcing the nation’s capability to build world-class green technologies.
He extended warm appreciation to all engineers, technicians, and partner organizations involved in the project, recognizing their contribution in shaping the future of India’s maritime operations.
With this groundbreaking initiative, Deendayal Port Authority continues to lead in promoting green technologies and sustainable port operations, fully aligned with the Government of India’s long-term maritime strategy.
