The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) has floated a $360 million tender for the construction of six methanol dual-fuel ready container ships at domestic shipyards, marking a major step in India’s maritime modernization and green shipping ambitions. The project aligns with the government’s push to strengthen local shipbuilding capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign yards.
The proposed vessels will be designed to operate on conventional fuel initially while being ready for future conversion to methanol, a cleaner alternative fuel gaining traction in global shipping. The move is expected to help SCI improve fleet efficiency, meet evolving environmental regulations, and lower long-term emissions.
Industry officials said the tender offers a significant boost to India’s shipbuilding sector by creating opportunities for local yards, equipment suppliers, and maritime service providers. It also supports the broader “Make in India” initiative by promoting indigenous construction of advanced commercial vessels.
Analysts noted that investing in dual-fuel ready ships positions SCI to adapt to the shipping industry’s energy transition while enhancing India’s presence in sustainable maritime transport. The vessels are expected to serve growing container trade demand and strengthen national shipping capacity.