The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI) has taken a significant step in expanding its LPG transportation capabilities with the induction of the Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC) “Sahyadri” into its fleet. The vessel, built in South Korea, has a cargo carrying capacity of 82,000 CBM and is classed with both DNV and Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).
The addition of “Sahyadri” to SCI’s fleet is in line with the Government of India’s Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 and Maritime India Vision 2030, which aim to promote self-reliance in shipping and augment tonnage under the Indian Flag. The vessel will primarily be deployed in the LPG trade between the Persian Gulf and India, ensuring secure, efficient, and reliable transportation of vital energy supplies to meet the nation’s growing demand.
With this induction, SCI’s total deadweight tonnage now stands at 5.2 million tonnes with 57 owned vessels. The acquisition is part of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signed on July 4, 2025, for two second-hand VLGCs, with the second vessel expected to be renamed “Shivalik”.
The induction of “Sahyadri” is expected to significantly boost SCI’s capacity in the fast-growing LPG segment, strengthen its presence on key trade routes, enhance its global competitiveness, and contribute to India’s maritime self-reliance. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, praised the development, saying it reflects the government’s vision for Atmanirbharta in Shipping.
The strategic expansion of SCI’s fleet is a significant step towards meeting the growing demand for LPG in India and reinforcing the country’s maritime capabilities. With its enhanced capacity, SCI is poised to play a more significant role in the global gas transportation market.
Marex Media