Pratik Bijlani –
The Company of Master Mariners of India (CMMI) held its monthly meeting on November 14, at VR Maritime Services Pvt Ltd, Mumbai, focusing on the transformative potential of data analytics for maritime risk management. The event attended both in-person and virtually, provided a platform for discussing innovations in predictive safety models, with Capt Gaurav Chhabra, Director – Business Development at HiLo Maritime Risk Management, delivering the keynote presentation.
The meeting commenced with a welcome speech by CMMI Chairman, Capt MP Bhasin, who expressed gratitude to Capt Chhabra for addressing this critical subject. Highlighting its relevance to maritime safety advancements, Capt Bhasin praised Capt Sanjay Prashar, CEO of VR Maritime, for hosting the event, citing his immense contribution and goodwill in the maritime sector. He also extended a warm welcome to both physical and virtual attendees, encouraging them to actively engage in discussions.
HiLo Maritime Risk Management, founded with the backing of Shell, Lloyd’s Register Consulting, and Maersk Tankers and operating independently since 2018, is a not-for-profit entity dedicated to improving safety in shipping through advanced predictive analytics. Capt Chhabra’s presentation emphasized the need for integrating disparate data sources like incident reports, audits, and defect logs to build a comprehensive risk profile. Stressing the shift from traditional methods, he remarked, “Gone are the days of recording in a PDF or a Word doc. The data must be digitized, structured, and readable by AI to enable predictive insights and improve decision-making.”
HiLo’s methodologies rely on AI and statistical models to identify “leading indicators” that could precede significant incidents, enabling early intervention. Capt Chhabra underscored the challenges of handling maritime data, including its fragmented and noisy nature, and highlighted the importance of collaboration and standardized reporting. He stated, “If we have to make correct decisions, we should merge all data sets, look at a holistic picture, and ensure inter-departmental interaction and communication to analyze and process data for proactive risk management.”
The presentation also showcased compelling case studies illustrating the tangible benefits of HiLo’s approach. These included reduced near-miss incidents, improved safety observations, and financial savings achieved by preemptively addressing risks. Capt. Chhabra urged the industry to invest in digital platforms and workforce training, especially as it transitions to alternative fuels like LNG, hydrogen, and ammonia, reiterating that safety and data-driven decisions are paramount in modern shipping operations.
The event saw participation from notable industry leaders, including Capt. Mohan Naik, Deputy Chairman of CMMI; Capt Sasikumar, CEO of CMMI; and Ms. Nathasha Egodage, Director of Ceyline Holdings. This diverse gathering reflected a shared commitment to leveraging technology for maritime safety.
The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, allowing attendees to delve deeper into the presented concepts, followed by refreshments that facilitated further networking. As CMMI continues to champion progressive maritime practices, the November meet stood out as a significant step toward fostering a safer and more innovative shipping industry.
Marex Media