On January 22, the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) and Sailors’ Society UK signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening welfare services for the maritime sector in India. This MOU marks a significant step forward in supporting the health, well-being, and safety of seafarers, reflecting a long-term commitment to improving their lives both at sea and on shore.

Mr Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Shipping, Government of India, expressed that the partnership with Sailors’ Society—an esteemed international charity established in 1818 with over 200 years of expertise in seafarer welfare —will bring invaluable resources and support to the maritime community in India. Capt (Dr) Daniel Joseph, Deputy Director of Shipping (Crew), Government of India, also reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to advancing the welfare of seafarers through this collaboration with Sailors’ Society.

Representatives from Sailors’ Society were present at the signing ceremony. Capt Manoj Joy (Community Development Manager) and Dr Deepti Mankad (Client and Project Manager) played key roles in facilitating the process. Sailors’ Society has built a strong reputation for offering round-the-clock support to seafarers, providing a comprehensive range of services designed to promote their physical and emotional well-being.

As part of this collaboration, the MOU outlines several initiatives to improve welfare services at Indian ports and for Indian seafarers worldwide. These include:

1. Helpline Services: Round-the-clock assistance to seafarers facing challenges at sea or in port.
2. Crisis Response: Immediate support in cases of emergencies or unforeseen difficulties.
3. E-Learning: Access to educational and training resources to support career development and safety.
4. Peer-to-Peer Support: A network for seafarers to connect, share experiences, and provide mutual assistance.
5. Cadet and Rating Conferences: Platforms for the professional development of young maritime talent and those pursuing careers in the industry.

The MOU aligns with the Directorate’s broader initiative to enhance seafarers’ welfare and safety standards and is poised to positively impact the Indian maritime industry. By leveraging Sailors’ Society’s global expertise, the collaboration will ensure more robust welfare systems, particularly in mental health support, crisis management, and education for maritime personnel.

Both parties expressed optimism that this partnership will transform seafarers’ lives, offering them the support and resources they deserve while enhancing the overall safety standards of the maritime sector in India. The MOU is a clear demonstration of the ongoing commitment to seafarers’ health, well-being, and safety, reinforcing the importance of collaborative international efforts to uplift the maritime community.

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Alang, one of the world’s largest and busiest ship recycling destinations, has been a significant contributor to India’s economy, providing employment opportunities and driving economic growth.

During his visit, Mr Ramachandran stressed the need for sustainable and responsible practices in the industry, aiming to assess challenges and opportunities, and encourage the adoption of best practices for safety and sustainability.

The Bansal yard, a leading example of transformation in the industry, impressed the Secretary with its state-of-the-art facility and environmentally friendly recycling operations. Rohith Agarwal, a distinguished figure in the ship recycling sector, briefed Mr Ramachandran on the industry’s growth, evolution, and adoption of new technologies for improved safety and environmental protection.

The visit is expected to strengthen collaboration between the government and the ship recycling industry, promoting the adoption of best practices for safety and sustainability.

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On January 22, the Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass) marked a significant milestone—its 50th anniversary—with a grand celebration held at The Westin Hotel in Mumbai. The event, part of IRClass’s year-long Golden Jubilee celebrations, was attended by prominent figures from the maritime industry, including government officials and corporate leaders. The celebration not only highlighted the organization’s achievements but also underscored its ongoing commitment to maritime safety, quality, and innovation.

The Chief guest of the event was Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Hon’ble Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways with key dignitaries of the industry like Mr Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping; Capt BK Tyagi, CMD of SCI; Dr Pandurang Raut, Deputy Director at DG Shipping; Mr. Arun Sharma, Executive Chairman of IRClass; Mr PK Mishra, Joint Managing Director at IRClass; Capt. MP Bhasin, Chairman of CMMI; Mr David Birwadkar, Chairman of IMEI Mumbai Branch; Capt SM Halbe, CEO of MASSA; Ms Sanjam Sahi Gupta, Founder of Maritime SheEO and many other notable personalities also attending the event.

The event began with a lamp lighting ceremony followed by a heartfelt welcome speech from Mr. Arun Sharma, Executive Chairman of IRClass. He honored the visionaries behind the founding of IRClass, particularly Sir Ramaswamy Mudaliar, whose efforts paved the way for its establishment in 1975. Mr. Sharma reflected on IRClass’s remarkable journey, emphasizing the organization’s milestones, such as becoming an IACS associate in 1991 and achieving full membership in 2010. He also spoke about the diversification of IRClass into new industrial sectors, including the upcoming listing of ISSPL. “Today, as we celebrate 50 years of IRS, we honor the visionaries and pioneers who built this organization brick by brick, overcoming uncertainties and laying the foundation for a first-class, quality-driven institution,” Mr. Sharma remarked.

A video depicting IRClass’s 50-year journey was then shown, highlighting the organization’s growth from its inception to its current global recognition. The video illustrated the challenges and triumphs over the decades, including IRClass’s involvement in green shipping initiatives and its pivotal role in the digital transformation of the maritime industry.

Cdr. K.K. Dhawan, Chief Surveyor at IRClass, further elaborated on the organization’s evolution, citing key milestones such as classing its first ship in 1975 and gaining major international recognition, including from the European Union in 2016 and the U.S. Coast Guard in 2020. He highlighted the expansion of IRClass’s global presence with a fleet of over 2,300 ships and offices worldwide, underscoring its contributions to maritime safety, environmental sustainability, and digital innovation.

The event also included the unveiling of two commemorative publications: a coffee table book celebrating IRClass’s legacy and the second volume of their special edition magazine, Touch of Class. These publications serve as a testament to IRClass’s journey and its impact on the global maritime industry.

Mr Jagannathan introduced the upcoming National Maritime Games, an initiative inspired by the “Khelo India” program. Mr Jagannathan emphasized the importance of camaraderie and sportsmanship in the maritime sector, calling for widespread participation from all age groups. This was followed by the unveiling of the National Maritime Games 2025 logo, which was done by the chief guest, Mr Sarbananda Sonowal, Hon’ble Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, in the presence of industry stalwarts.

In his inspiring speech, Mr Sonowal lauded IRClass for its exceptional service to the maritime industry over the past five decades. “Fifty years of remarkable service to the maritime industry is an extraordinary achievement, reflecting the dedication, innovation, and excellence that the Indian Register of Shipping has consistently demonstrated since its inception,” he said. Shri Sonowal also highlighted the alignment of IRClass’s initiatives with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India a global maritime leader, emphasizing the role of innovation, sustainability, and youth empowerment in achieving these goals.

The event concluded with a thrilling musical performance by Mohammed Danish, famous for his stint on Indian Idol, followed by cocktails and a lavish dinner. IRClass’s 50th anniversary celebration not only commemorated past achievements but also set the stage for an exciting future, with the organization poised to continue its leadership in the maritime industry.

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Speaking at the event, Shri Sonowal highlighted the critical role of sports in fostering physical and mental well-being. He emphasized the importance of games in promoting a healthy lifestyle, unity, and teamwork, especially within the maritime community.

“The Maritime Games symbolize the spirit of fitness and camaraderie that binds the maritime sector,” said Shri Sonowal. “These games aim to inspire individuals to prioritize health while strengthening relationships within the shipping and logistics fraternity.”

The launch ceremony was attended by distinguished industry leaders.The event marked a significant step in aligning the maritime sector’s dedication to professional ch excellence with a commitment to physical and mental wellness.

The Director General of Shipping Shri Shyam Jagannathan  congratulated IRS on golden Jubilee celebration and announced the Maritime Games  logo-unveiling by Shri Sonowal ji.

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Cancer Prevalence Among Seafarers

Cancer comprises a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells. Among seafarers, the likelihood of developing cancer is influenced by occupational exposures, lifestyle choices, and the logistical challenges of healthcare access during extended voyages.

Epidemiological studies highlight lung, oral, and oesophageal cancers as the most prevalent types among sea staff, directly associated with tobacco use. Additionally, exposure to occupational carcinogens such as asbestos, benzene, and ultraviolet radiation further heightens their vulnerability. Reports from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and International Maritime Organization (IMO) underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions in this high-risk group.

The Role of Tobacco Use and E-Cigarettes

Tobacco use remains a primary modifiable risk factor for cancer among seafarers. Social smoking, prevalent due to the camaraderie of shared breaks and the isolation of maritime life, contributes significantly to cancer risk. Even occasional smoking exposes individuals to over 70 carcinogens found in tobacco, damaging DNA and impairing immune responses.

The rise of e-cigarettes, often marketed as a safer alternative, has introduced new complexities. While e-cigarettes eliminate some harmful chemicals present in traditional tobacco, they are not risk-free. Studies suggest that the aerosols produced by e-cigarettes contain toxic substances that may contribute to lung and cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, the use of e-cigarettes can perpetuate nicotine addiction, increasing the likelihood of transitioning to traditional smoking.

Smokeless tobacco products, often considered safer, pose their own risks. Chewing tobacco is a known contributor to oral and oesophageal cancers, as emphasized by reports from organizations like the Sailors’ Society. Addressing these misconceptions is vital for effective prevention.

Advances in Cancer Screening

Modern tools have revolutionized early cancer detection, offering hope for timely intervention:

1. Low-Dose Computed Tomography (CT): Particularly effective for early-stage lung cancer detection among smokers.
2. Oral Cancer Detection Techniques: Visual inspections supplemented by fluorescence imaging identify pre-cancerous lesions.
3. Biomarker-Based Blood Tests: Screening for markers like PSA (prostate-specific antigen) or CA-125 facilitates early diagnosis.
4. Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA): A valuable biomarker in detecting and monitoring certain cancers, such as colorectal and lung cancers. Elevated CEA levels can indicate early malignancies or recurrence, enabling timely intervention.

Key points about CEA and smoking:

1. Baseline Increase: Smokers tend to have higher baseline levels of CEA compared to non-smokers
2. Clinical Implication: While evaluating elevated CEA levels in a smoker, it’s important to differentiate between smoking-related elevation and potential malignancy

Smoking and CEA Testing:

• Smoking Cessation: Advising patients to stop smoking can help in more accurate monitoring of CEA levels over time
• Clinical Judgment: Persistent or significantly elevated levels, despite cessation, should warrant further investigation.

• Telemedicine Platforms: Enable remote consultations with oncology specialists, bridging gaps in healthcare access during voyages.

The Importance of Good Quality PEME

A robust Pre-Employment Medical Examination (PEME) system is vital for early detection of cancer risks among seafarers. High-quality PEMEs not only evaluate fitness for duty but also integrate comprehensive health assessments, including advanced cancer screenings. Effective PEMEs should:

• Include routine cancer screening tests for high-risk individuals
• Assess occupational exposures to carcinogens like asbestos and benzene
• Provide personalized counselling on lifestyle factors, including smoking cessation

Evidence-Based Preventive Strategies

Preventive measures are central to mitigating cancer risks among sea staff. Key strategies include:

1. Educational Initiatives: Collaborate with welfare organizations to raise awareness about tobacco and e-cigarette risks as well as cancer prevention.
2. Smoking and Vaping Cessation Support: Provide access to nicotine replacement therapies, behavioural counselling, and peer support networks.
3. Regulatory Frameworks: Enforce smoke-free and vape-free zones aboard vessels and establish stringent guidelines to minimize occupational carcinogen exposure.
4. Regular Health Screenings: Encourage seafarers to undergo routine check-ups during port visits to facilitate early detection.
5. Promoting Healthy Lifestyles: Advocate for balanced diets, regular physical activity, and stress management to enhance overall resilience:
6. Balanced Diets: Provide nutritious meal options on board, focusing on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. For example, serving meals with fresh salads, grilled fish, or legumes can improve overall health.
7. Regular Physical Activity: Incorporate simple exercise routines that seafarers can perform in confined spaces, such as bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, or yoga. Group fitness challenges can also motivate participation.
8. Stress Management: Offer resources such as mindfulness apps, relaxation techniques, or counseling services. Designating quiet spaces for relaxation or meditation on vessels can further support mental well-being.

Practical Steps to Quit Tobacco and E-Cigarettes

Quitting tobacco and e-cigarettes is a challenging but essential step toward cancer prevention. Evidence-based approaches include:

1. Goal Setting: Establish a quit date and prepare mentally for the transition
2. Behavioural Interventions: Identify triggers and develop alternative coping mechanisms
3. Pharmacological Support: Utilize nicotine patches, gums, or prescription medications to ease withdrawal symptoms
4. Support Systems: Leverage group therapy and peer encouragement for sustained motivation
5. Monitoring Progress: Celebrate milestones and reassess strategies as needed

Cancer among sea staff represents a critical health challenge that warrants immediate attention. By addressing the role of tobacco use and e-cigarettes, leveraging modern screening technologies, and implementing preventive measures, we can significantly reduce cancer incidence in this vulnerable population. Good quality PEMEs, combined with ongoing health education and regulatory frameworks, are instrumental in safeguarding seafarers’ health. Insights from organizations like the Sailors’ Society, the American College of Pathology, and the ILO provide a robust foundation for actionable strategies. Collaborative efforts across stakeholders will ensure safer seas and healthier seafarers.

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A Confluence of Minds

Aarohan 2025 aims to be more than just a conference; it’s a movement to bridge the gap between academia and the maritime industry. This year’s theme, “Bridging the Gap Between Academy and Industry and AI in Shipping,” focuses on fostering collaboration and innovation to equip the industry for the future.

With AI-driven platforms rapidly transforming maritime operations, Aarohan 2025 will explore how cutting-edge technologies can enhance efficiency, decision-making, and sustainability. It’s an opportunity for stakeholders to discover the latest advancements, share best practices, and identify solutions to complex industry challenges.

Key Highlights

1. AI-Driven Shipping Platforms: Discussions will focus on emerging AI technologies, including predictive analytics, autonomous shipping, advanced laytime calculators, and digital twin simulations that are reshaping traditional practices.
2. Academia Meets Industry: Interactive panels and workshops will spotlight the importance of integrating academic research with real-world applications, ensuring that maritime education is aligned with the dynamic needs of the industry.
3. Global Perspectives: Esteemed speakers and panelists from around the globe will share insights on market trends, regulatory updates, and innovative technologies.
4. Networking Opportunities: Aarohan 2025 offers a platform to connect with shipowners, charterers, brokers, operators, educators, and technology providers, fostering meaningful collaborations.

Powered by Visionaries

Integrated Maritime Exchange, the force behind Aarohan, is India’s pioneering AI-driven platform for shipping operations, dedicated to transforming the trillion-dollar maritime industry. With Graphic Era University, a leading institution known for its commitment to excellence and innovation, powering the event, Aarohan 2025 is set to be a milestone in maritime discourse.

Why Attend Aarohan 2025?

Whether you are an industry leader, academician, policymaker, or student, Aarohan 2025 is your gateway to:

• Stay Ahead: Understand how AI is disrupting and improving maritime operations.
• Collaborate: Build partnerships that can drive growth and innovation.
• Contribute: Share your insights to shape the future of the industry.
• Learn: Gain exposure to cutting-edge tools, technologies, and methodologies.

Join Us in Dehradun

Mark your calendar for March 22, 2025, and join us in Dehradun, where the Himalayan foothills will echo with ideas and innovations. Together, let’s navigate the future of shipping, ensuring a harmonious blend of academic excellence and industry pragmatism.

For delegate registration/sponsorship contact Ms Neha: 9557536211 or contact us at aarohan@theimehub.com. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this transformative journey.

Set sail for Aarohan 2025—where ideas meet innovation and the future of maritime begins!

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On January 16, the Company of Master Mariners of India (CMMI) hosted its monthly meeting on the critical topic of maritime cybersecurity at Elegant Marine Services’ office in Mumbai. The hybrid meeting saw participation both online and in-person, with Capt Viraf Chichgar, General Manager and Dean of FMTI, delivering the keynote presentation titled Maritime Cyber Security – The Challenges Ahead.

The meeting commenced with an inaugural speech by Capt. M.P. Bhasin, Chairman of CMMI, who expressed gratitude to Capt. Chichgar for his insightful presentation and acknowledged his earlier contributions at the “Viksit Bharat” seminar. Capt. Bhasin also extended his appreciation to Elegant Marine Fleet Management and the attendees for their continued support of CMMI’s initiatives.

Capt. Chichgar’s keynote presentation explored the increasing prevalence of cyberattacks and the vulnerabilities in the maritime sector. He began by demonstrating cybersecurity practices, such as the distribution of relevant documents via secure QR codes, cautioning against scanning unverified links. “Cybersecurity isn’t just about protecting systems; it’s about managing the risks posed by human behavior, poor coding, and unregulated technology,” he emphasized.

Using real-world examples like the 2017 NotPetya attack, Capt. Chichgar highlighted the transition from traditional IT hacks to vulnerabilities in operational technology (OT), driven by the growing integration of IoT devices on ships. He underscored the dangers of outdated technology, pointing out that many systems onboard vessels are incompatible with modern cybersecurity protocols. “Ships are being retrofitted with technology that’s 20 months in development, yet it’s installed on engines that are 20 years old – creating vulnerabilities no one anticipated,” he noted.

The presentation also addressed the evolving sophistication of cyber threats, from AI-driven attacks to geopolitical exploitation. Challenges such as spoofing and jamming of navigation systems were discussed, with solutions like multi-frequency GNSS, redundancy systems, and encryption keys presented as effective yet underutilized measures.

Regulatory developments, including the implementation of cyber class notifications for new vessels from July 2024, were outlined. However, Capt. Chichgar lamented the slow industry progress and the limited coverage of cyber risks by insurers. He proposed proactive measures, including centralized systems with updated firewalls and anomaly detection tools, as essential steps toward resilience.

The session concluded with a compelling argument for adopting the cybersecurity framework of identifying, protecting, detecting, responding, and recovering. Capt. Chichgar emphasized that as vessels become increasingly digital, the responsibility for cybersecurity transitions from shipbuilders and classification societies to operators, making vigilance and preparedness imperative.

Following an engaging Q&A session, Capt. Kaustubh Pradhan, Warden of CMMI, delivered the vote of thanks, applauding the presentation for shedding light on the pressing need for maritime cybersecurity awareness.

CMMI’s meeting not only provided valuable insights into the challenges ahead but also emphasized the urgent need for industry-wide collaboration to safeguard maritime operations against escalating cyber threats.

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The Problem with Maritime Labour Standards

International regulations such as the ILO’s C180 and IMO’s STCW 1978 were designed to safeguard seafarers by setting maximum working hours. Yet, their benchmarks –  permitting workweeks as long as 91 and 98 hours (with exceptions) – fall far short of global labour standards. By comparison, land-based industries adhere to a 48-hour workweek, a standard first championed over a century ago in the Treaty of Versailles (1919), which laid the foundation for the ILO Constitution and was later reinforced through the ‘Decent Work’ criteria.

Why are maritime workers treated differently? The 48-hour workweek is considered as “… the legal standard closest to the point beyond which regular work becomes unhealthy, which is identified in the health literature as 50 hours”. Yet, seafarers remain locked into an outdated framework, forced to endure working hours unthinkable in most other professions. The disparity raises questions about the industry’s commitment to treating seafarers fairly and humanely.

Implementation: A System in Crisis

Even when regulatory standards exist, their Implementation is plagued by systemic failures. An analysis involving 6,304 seafarers, 55 port state control (PSC) officers, and 16,551 PSC inspections has laid bare the disconnect between policy and practice:

• 64.3% of seafarers admitted to falsifying their work and rest logs.
• PSC officers found it challenging to identify non-compliance.
• PSC officers reported compliance rates as high as 99.3%, while seafarers estimated compliance at a mere 11.7% to 16.1%.

The root of these issues can be traced to the weakness in several feedback loops:

• First, Suppressed Reporting: Two-thirds (66.7%) of seafarers had their reports questioned by companies, 60.1% faced expectations to falsify records, and 49.1% were explicitly instructed to do so.
• Second, Underutilised Escalation Mechanisms: Instances of record falsification do not escalate recurring non-compliance to flag State authorities who review or withdraw the manning certificate, allowing compliance issues to persist unchecked.
• Third, Skewed Reporting: Overstated compliance rates by PSC officers mask the true extent of violations, creating a misleading narrative of successful Implementation at the policy level.
• Fourth, Ignored Research: Despite two decades of studies highlighting the prevalence of record falsification, policymakers have failed to address this systemic issue.

Charting a Course for Reform

Addressing these deeply ingrained issues requires a fundamental shift in regulatory standards and implementation practices. Here are some actionable steps:

1. Reassess Work Hour Standards: Align seafarers’ working hours with globally recognised labour benchmarks, ensuring their right to rest and recovery.
2. Promote Transparent Reporting: Establish mechanisms that allow seafarers to report violations without fear of retaliation.
3. Strengthen Enforcement: Enhance PSC officer training and adopt digital tools for monitoring compliance.
4. Strengthen Enforcement: Enhance flag States’ accountability in overseeing non-compliance and determining manning levels.
5. Advance Policy Reform: Policymakers at the IMO and ILO must prioritise amendments to existing regulations. The upcoming ILO’s MLC 2006 discussion in April 2025 offers a crucial opportunity to address these systemic shortcomings.

A Call to Action

The maritime industry must acknowledge its responsibility to protect the very workers who sustain global trade. Meaningful reform is not only a moral imperative but also essential for ensuring the sector’s long-term sustainability.

Seafarers have endured decades of inhumane working time regulations. It is time for policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to act decisively, delivering a framework that upholds their rights and dignity. Only by confronting these challenges can we truly honour the contributions of those who keep the world’s economy afloat.
The Author

Capt (Dr) Bikram S. Bhatia is a research associate at the World Maritime University in Sweden. His recent research centred on work/rest hours regulations as part of a three-year project funded by the ITF Seafarers’ Trust.

The full report is available at https://commons.wmu.se/phd_dissertations/35/.

Additional publications, “A Culture of Adjustment”, can be accessed at https://commons.wmu.se/lib_reports/66/,  and “Quantifying an Inconvenient Truth” is available at https://commons.wmu.se/lib_reports/80/.

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Mulakkath fir kabhi

Hey mates we were trained together
Learning to work hard in perils of the seas
As sailors to earn a living courageously
With guts pride knowledge expertise
We lost a few to Davy John’s locker
A few more to Karma, fate, destiny, age
Here we are the rest assembled ado
For what’s left on earth cosmos universe
Crossed the Equator blessed by Neptune
Sailed the seven seas, crossed Dateline
Been down under, over the top too on call
Rhumb Line, Great Circle, avoiding storms et al
Now here is the time to celebrate
What’s left of us for those left behind
Make merry, be sympathetic, empathetic
For those missing such opportunities

Sury PULLAT
ROC 2481

2414 Suresh Narayana Amirapu
2415 Jai Kumar Anand
2416 R. Appaswamy
2417 Kapil Dev Bahl
2418 Late Pravin K Bakshi
2419 Late Joe M Baptista
2420 Ashok K Batura
2421 Sudhir W Bedekar
2422 Jehanbux Bhandara
2423 Late Jayant Bhatt
2424 Late Bhaskar W Bhide
2425 Tome Antonio Cardozo
2426 M R Carneiro
2427 K S Chabba
2428 Sudarshan Chatrath
2429 Anand Chopra
2430 Late Gregory S Coelho
2431 D J D’Costa
2432 Late Ivor J D’Costa
2433 Rudy M D’Souza
2434 Lalit G Dharmani
2435 MacKinnon D’Silva
2436 Alfie T D’Souza
2437 Subhangshu Dutt
2438 Ravi K Dutta
2439 Late Edwin E Fernandes
2440 J P Fraser
2441 Mukesh Gautama
2442 Georgie K George
2443 Late L M Gomes
2444 B Gonsalves
2445 H M Gosavi
2446 Harminder Singh Soni
2447 Arvind K Jauhari
2448 Karan Vir Jolly
2449 D Kabir
2450 Manvender Singh Kalra
2451 Viraf R Kekobad
2452 Ashok Khanna
2453 M K Khanra
2454 Late Prem Nath Lookhar
2455 Jatinder Singh Luthra
2456 Srikrishna K Manjrekar
2457 Deep Malik
2458 Malvinder Singh
2459 Ranjit Manghnani
2460 Surrindra Mehta
2461 J B Nakhwa
2462 Nirmal Singh
2463 Melville Pinto
2464 Late Jimmy M Press
2465 Ben Rego
2466 Vernon Rego
2467 Victor Rodrigues
2468 Utpal Bindu Roy
2469 Deepak Sabharwal
2470 Late Arvinder S Sahi
2471 Late Kanwaljit S Sandhu
2472 Sarabjit Singh Sandhu
2473 Philip Sequeira
2474 Ashok Sharma
2475 Late Sunil Sharma
2476 A R Shetty
2477 A J A Simoes
2478 S S Sodhi
2479 Manjeshwar Sriram
2480 Behram H Surty
2481 Pullat Suryanarayanan
2482 Rajesh Talwar
2483 FF Tauro
2484 Karan Vaswani
2485 C P Viegas
2486 V Jai Indiran
2487 E T Perera
2488 S Rengarajah
2489 Ravi Netto
2490 Manvendra S Panwar
2491 Krishnamurthy Iyer
2492 S.M. Ifthikaruddin
2493 Raman Pal Arora

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As ship operators and owners strive for more sustainable operations, LNG plays a key role as a transition fuel, bridging the gap between conventional diesel fuels and future carbon-neutral or carbon-free alternatives. However, the main component of LNG is methane and when burned as a fuel, a very small amount may not combust properly, leading to methane escaping into the atmosphere. Across the shipping industry, cutting methane emissions is one of the most effective ways to decrease overall GHG emissions from engines over the next 10 years, complementing other efforts to reduce CO2 emissions.

When operating with LNG fuel, the EnviroPac feature cuts methane emissions in half, compared to the standard Wärtsilä 34DF engine. This is without altering the existing power output of 520 kW per cylinder. In addition to the environmental benefit, the reduction in emissions has an impact on costs when operating in EU waters since it results in lesser penalties under both the EU’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) and FuelEU Maritime (FEUM). The EnviroPac feature is available for both new and latest versions of existing Wärtsilä 34DF constant speed engines.

“This is a very important development that will have a major beneficial impact on our operations,” says Xavier Leclercq, Vice President, Newbuilding, CMA CGM. “We are working hard to minimise the environmental footprint throughout our fleet, and this latest technology from Wärtsilä provides strong support to these efforts.”

The eight 9200TEU LNG-powered vessels will each operate with two 6-cylinder Wärtsilä 34DF and two 9-cylinder Wärtsilä 34DF EnviroPac engines, as well as the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems. The Wärtsilä equipment is scheduled for delivery to the yard commencing in early 2026.
“We are proud to launch this new EnviroPac feature for our already efficient Wärtsilä 34DF engine. Our long-standing relationship with CMA CGM is once again enhanced with this order, and we complement them on their vision for actively achieving sustainability throughout their fleet,” comments Stefan Nysjö, Vice President of Power Supply, Wärtsilä Marine.

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