The Institution of Marine Engineers (India) (IMEI) Mumbai Branch brought the maritime engineering community together on 29 August for its 43rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Technical Seminar at Hotel Kohinoor Continental, Mumbai. Held alongside the Navi Mumbai and Gujarat Chapters, the gathering combined a review of the Branch’s achievements with a forward-looking discussion on sustainability, alternative fuels and advanced water-management technologies.

Addressing members, Mr Sanjeev V Mehra, Chairman, IME(I) Mumbai Branch, highlighted the Branch’s continued efforts in technical seminars, training programmes, mentorship, welfare and social responsibility initiatives. He also invited the maritime fraternity to participate in INMARCO 2026, scheduled to take place in Mumbai from 27 to 29 October. Honorary Secretary Mr Sunayan Sanatani presented the Annual Activities Report, noting a 17% increase in membership during the year.

Recognition remained an important part of the evening, with the 7th Mumbai Branch Meritorious Service Awards 2026 presented to Mr Karan Madhok and Mr Ramawatar Ladha for their contributions to the Institution. The inaugural Marine Engineer’s Excellence Award went to Mr Prashant Khadilkar, Chief Engineer of MV Aruna Ismail, for his commendable role in rescuing a disabled fishing vessel and helping save three survivors and their dog. The company associated with the vessel was also felicitated for supporting the rescue effort.

The technical discussions then turned to how marine engineering expertise can contribute far beyond the ship. Mr Turbashu Bhattacharya of Roserve Enviro Pvt. Ltd., speaking on “Zero Liquid Discharge – A Marine Engineer’s Mindset Applied Ashore,” drew a direct connection between onboard environmental systems and industrial wastewater management. He explained how reverse osmosis, oily water separators, sewage treatment plants, ballast water systems and other onboard practices can provide a foundation for onshore water-recycling strategies.

Highlighting Roserve’s waste-heat recovery-based green ZLD solutions and its work across more than 100 sites, Bhattacharya pointed to a Navi Mumbai project achieving around 94% effluent recycling for industrial reuse. “Marine engineers already work with zero-liquid-discharge principles onboard, and these practices can be effectively transferred ashore. By combining membrane treatment, evaporation, waste heat recovery and water recycling, industries can reduce consumption, recover resources, protect the marine environment and ecosystems.” he said.

The second presentation moved from water to fuel, as Mr. Manoj Chaudhari of UNNIC LNG Consultancy Pvt. Ltd. examined “LNG Bunkering: From Fuel Transfer to Environmental Responsibility.” He noted that while LNG bunkering is established in several international markets, India has yet to develop large-scale operations. He identified infrastructure, investment, training and coordination between ports, terminals, suppliers, vessels and surveyors as key requirements.

Mr Chaudhari suggested that truck-to-ship bunkering could provide a practical starting point, allowing India to build operational experience before moving towards ship-to-ship and terminal-to-ship models. His presentation also covered compatibility checks, risk assessment, inspections, controlled transfer procedures and specialised crew training. “India has the opportunity to establish LNG bunkering, but infrastructure, training, operational ownership and investment remain key challenges. Starting with truck-to-ship bunkering can build experience and demand, enabling India to develop a reliable, safe, scalable and efficient LNG bunkering ecosystem.” he said.

The final technical session, led by Mr DG Mahajan of Rochem Separation Systems (India) Pvt. Ltd., explored “Seawater and High-Salinity Desalination Using Energy-Efficient Technologies.” Tracing Rochem’s evolution from marine desalination systems developed for merchant ships and the Indian Navy to wider industrial applications, Mahajan highlighted membrane technologies including microfiltration, ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis and nanofiltration.

He also showcased compact desalination systems, brine concentration, non-metallic evaporators and air-to-water technologies designed for increasingly complex industrial water streams. “Desalination and water recycling are no longer limited to conventional applications. By combining advanced membrane technologies, zero-liquid-discharge systems and innovative treatment solutions, we can address increasingly saline and complex water streams while delivering efficient, sustainable and scalable solutions across industries.” Mr Mahajan said.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Sunayan Sanatani, followed by dinner and networking. More than an annual review, the evening demonstrated how the role of the marine engineer is expanding—from ensuring the safe and efficient operation of ships to contributing expertise to decarbonisation, water conservation, alternative fuels and sustainable industrial development. For IME(I) Mumbai Branch, the 43rd AGM offered a clear reflection of an engineering community preparing not only for the ships of tomorrow, but also for the environmental challenges shaping the wider maritime industry.

Marex Media

Insights That Matter

“Indian ships and Indian seafarers are well equipped to comply with evolving international requirements on pollution prevention and containment. The competence of our seafarers, combined with their understanding of the impact of pollution, gives me confidence that Indian shipping will remain fully aligned with global maritime environmental standards.” – Mr Ajoy Chatterjee, Director (Maritime Studies) at ADU Academy India

“Professional bodies such as IMEI serve as a vital interface between the administration and industry. Technical forums and seminars provide an effective platform to discuss policy, resolve practical challenges and gather industry inputs. We rely heavily on this partnership to support India’s green-shipping transition and advance our shared net-zero ambitions.” – Mr Aniruddha Chaki, Deputy Chief Surveyor at DGMA

“LNG bunkering infrastructure and regulations are largely in place, but the commercial demand has yet to develop. Once stronger regulatory signals require ships to reduce emissions, demand for alternative fuels such as LNG will increase, creating the commercial incentive for fuel supply infrastructure and routine bunkering operations in India.” – Mr IN Bose, Advisor to The Great Eastern Shipping Co

As the maritime industry faces mounting pressure to decarbonise, LNG bunkering is emerging as a practical bridge fuel. At a recent session, I had the privilege of listening to Mr Manoj H Chaudhari, CEO of Unnic LNG Solutions, whose presentation offered a timely and insightful perspective on how liquefied natural gas could reshape shipping’s future.

Manoj underscored LNG’s role as a transitional fuel, balancing operational efficiency with environmental responsibility. He stressed that LNG bunkering is not simply a technical innovation but a strategic enabler for shipowners navigating tightening international regulations, including the IMO’s decarbonisation targets.

A central theme of his presentation was infrastructure readiness. Ports across Asia and Europe are rapidly investing in LNG bunkering facilities, signalling confidence in LNG’s long‑term viability. Manoj highlighted India’s expanding port network as a unique opportunity to position the country as a regional hub, strengthening its role in global shipping corridors.

Safety and operational standards were also in focus. LNG bunkering demands rigorous training, robust risk management, and harmonised international guidelines. Manoj emphasised that collaboration between regulators, shipowners, and technology providers will be critical to ensuring safe and efficient adoption.

From an economic standpoint, LNG offers cost competitiveness compared to conventional fuels, particularly when factoring in carbon levies and emissions trading schemes. Yet, Manoj acknowledged challenges such as upfront capital investment and the need for reliable supply chains.

Importantly, he framed LNG as a bridge to future fuels like hydrogen and ammonia. “LNG is not the final destination,” he noted, “but it is a reliable vessel to carry us toward a cleaner maritime future.”

The presentation resonated strongly with delegates, many of whom see LNG bunkering as a practical pathway to meet sustainability goals without compromising operational efficiency. In an era of rapid change, LNG stands out as a solution that is both technically feasible and strategically aligned with global decarbonisation imperatives.

Marex Media

The order was booked into MacGregor’s Q2 2026 orders received.

Designed to set new standards in sustainable maritime transport, the 240-meter vessels will feature 5,400 lane meters of cargo capacity and accommodation for 1,000 persons each. They will operate on key Baltic Sea routes connecting Sweden, Germany, Poland, and Lithuania.

Sustainable Baltic Transport and Strategic Collaboration

The new RoPax ferries build directly on TT-Line’s commitment to environmentally conscious, high-efficiency sea travel across the Baltic region. Equipped with battery-hybrid technology and powered by LNG, the Green Ship 2.0 vessels reinforce TT-Line’s core values of reducing carbon emissions, optimizing energy efficiency, and delivering seamless, eco-friendly logistics and passenger transit.

This milestone agreement reflects a project development phase initiated in 2021. Building upon operational insights and technical experience gained from previous fleet projects, MacGregor has integrated valuable lessons learnt to optimise design, equipment reliability, and execution processes.

“Our Green Ship 2.0 program is a cornerstone of TT-Line’s commitment to sustainable, high-efficiency transport across the Baltic Sea,” says Bernhard Termühlen, Managing Director at TT-Line. “Equipping these vessels with high-performance, reliable cargo handling systems is essential for optimising our port turnarounds and delivering high service standards for our freight and passenger customers. We value MacGregor’s technical expertise and shared dedication to continuous improvement as we work together to set new environmental standards in ferry transport.”

“We are proud to continue our partnership with China Merchants Jinling Shipyard and TT-Line on this ambitious Green Ship 2.0 program,” says Magnus Sjöberg, Executive Vice President, Merchant Solutions Division at MacGregor. “By combining technical refinements with a passion for continuous improvement, our cross-border teams across Sweden, China, Poland, Germany and Croatia have delivered an integrated cargo handling solution. This agreement not only highlights our expertise in complex RoPax equipment, but also reinforces our dedication to customer success and sustainable shipping.”

Marex Media

Release By MacGregor Press Office

The agreement formalises and expands an existing cooperation between two recognised front-runners in maritime safety. It reflects a strategic decision by Dräger management to work with a global partner with the capability to support its marine products worldwide.

Under the terms of the agreement, VIKING becomes Dräger’s trusted Official Preferred Global Sales and Service Partner for respiratory protection equipment and mobile gas detection equipment across the global maritime shipping industry.

Ahead of a formal signing ceremony, staged on 2 September at SMM 2026 in Hamburg, Henrik Helsinghof, CEO, VIKING Life-Saving Equipment, commented: “Both VIKING and Dräger are renowned for their expertise and for the quality of their equipment. This partnership aims to leverage the benefits of scale and strong collaboration to ensure continuity in supply and service in this critical area of safety and life-saving equipment.”

VIKING is the leading provider of maritime safety and fire-fighting solutions, with a portfolio including marine evacuation systems, lifeboats, liferafts, rescue boats, davits, PPE and marine fire services. Dräger customers will benefit from the support of the extensive global network of certified VIKING service stations that serve cargo shipping, offshore assets, passenger shipping, navies and coastguards, Helsinghof added.

Dräger is present in over 190 countries. The partnership covers the respiratory protection equipment, portable gas detection systems, tubes and drug & alcohol detection kits on which the Lübeck, Germany-based company has established its maritime position.

“For maritime customers, having access to products and service from a single source is a decisive factor in keeping safety equipment ready for use at all times. With VIKING, we have found a partner that is present exactly where our customers need complete safety solutions – in the world’s key port regions,” says Rainer Klug, Executive Board Member Safety Technology at Dräger.

Marex Media

Navguide Solutions LLP, a Kolkata-based maritime technology firm, has announced the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding between The Maritime Union of India (MUI) that reinforces its mission to transform ship inspections and crew training through digital innovation. Mr David Birwadkar, Chief Strategy Officer, Navguide and Capt Savio Ramos, General Secretary, MUI signed the MOU in Mumbai.

Navguide’s latest agreement marks a decisive stride in its mission to broaden its global footprint. The collaboration is set to roll out advanced training modules and compliance solutions tailored to international benchmarks, ensuring vessels remain charter‑ready while empowering owners to maximize revenue potential. This milestone underscores Navguide’s commitment to driving operational excellence and reinforcing its position as a trusted partner in the evolving maritime landscape.

Founded in 2019, Navguide Solutions has built a reputation for leveraging advanced tools to empower seafarers and improve vessel compliance. Its flagship product, Guide2Inspections, is already deployed across hundreds of merchant ships, helping crews remain inspection-ready while reducing operational burdens. The platform offers zone-wise guidance, interactive simulations, and the world’s first virtual tour guide for vessel inspections.

Navguide’s broader portfolio includes the Maritime Skill Enhancer and specialized guides for AMSA inspections, reflecting Its commitment to continuous innovation. With this latest partnership, the firm is poised to reach a wider audience of seafarers and shipping companies seeking reliable, technology-driven solutions.

Extending its gratitude to Capt Ramos and his team, Navguide Solutions hailed the agreement as a significant honour and a defining step in its growth journey. The company emphasized that this collaboration reinforces its vision of enabling maritime professionals to perform “10X better” in their workplace, underscoring its commitment to innovation, skill development, and operational excellence across the global shipping industry.

This development underscores the growing importance of digital tools in the shipping sector, where efficiency, compliance, and crew competence are increasingly critical to operational success.

Marex Media

The Company of Master Mariners of India (CMMI) held its Monthly Lecture on 6^th August at the Anglo-Eastern Maritime Training Centre (AEMTC), Andheri, Mumbai, bringing renewed attention to one of the most pressing challenges facing modern bridge teams: navigating safely when warfare and electronic interference begin to compromise the systems, they rely upon.

Capt Kamalaksha Kamath, Fellow-CMMI and Assistant Program Head & Assistant General Manager, Anglo-Eastern Ship Management (India) Pvt. Ltd., delivered the presentation, titled Impact of War on ECDIS Navigation. Drawing on his expertise in ECDIS training and safe navigation, he examined how missile attacks, drones, mines, GNSS jamming and spoofing, cyber threats and electronic warfare are changing the navigational risk environment.

While ECDIS, AIS and GNSS have transformed bridge operations, Capt. Kamath stressed that electronic information cannot be treated as infallible, particularly in conflict-affected waters. GNSS disruption can distort positioning information, while spoofing may be especially dangerous because false information can appear credible without immediately triggering an alarm. A compromised position can consequently create an inaccurate picture of surrounding traffic and hazards.

The presentation therefore placed strong emphasis on verification. Navigators should cross-check electronic information using radar, ARPA, visual observations, traditional navigation techniques, radar overlays, parallel indexing, visual bearings and echo sounder checks. Suspicious floating, drifting, anchored or submerged objects must also be treated cautiously, reported and logged, with appropriate warnings communicated to other vessels.

Capt. Kamath further highlighted the importance of intelligence and navigational warnings, including NAVAREA information, company instructions and flag-state guidance. Such information must form part of voyage planning and bridge-team decision-making when operating in high-risk areas. “Safety of navigation is no longer simply about collision avoidance and preventing grounding. It also means avoiding areas where vessels may be exposed to attacks, whether those threats are intended or unintended, and making navigational decisions based on the complete risk picture.” said Capt. Kamath.

The discussion reinforced that modern warfare can extend far beyond physical attacks. Electronic and cyber disruption can directly affect the information used by bridge teams to make critical decisions. This makes cybersecurity awareness, contingency planning, continuous monitoring and effective communication increasingly important components of navigational safety. The lecture also underlined the continuing importance of the Master’s discretion and crew safety when operating in conflict zones. Compliance with regulations and guidance remains essential, but navigators must maintain the professional judgment required to assess changing circumstances and respond appropriately.

Looking ahead, resilient navigation will increasingly depend on layered safeguards, including multi-GNSS systems, sensor fusion, cyber protection and emerging navigation technologies. Yet these systems must complement rather than replace established seamanship. “The future of resilient navigation will depend on combining new technology with established seamanship. Multi-GNSS, sensor fusion and cyber protection can provide additional safeguards, but they must work alongside verification, lookout, reporting and the professional judgment of the bridge team.” Capt. Kamath said.

The CMMI lecture ultimately delivered a clear message: as maritime security threats become increasingly complex, technology alone cannot guarantee safe navigation. The strongest defence remains a well-trained and vigilant bridge team capable of questioning electronic information, recognising its limitations and combining modern tools with sound navigational judgment.

Marex Media

Industry adoption of MacGregor’s advanced lashing technologies has accelerated rapidly across both newbuildings and vessel retrofits, highlighted by strong order volumes:

•             Hippo fully automatic twistlocks: Sold over 1 million units

•             Balanced Lashing Systems: Sold to over 110 ships

As container lines increasingly prioritise operational efficiency, turnaround speed, and cargo capacity optimisation, MacGregor foresees substantial and growing demand ahead across global container shipping segments.

The strong market reception stems from the combined system’s ability to maximise vessel deck payload while elevating operational safety and speed. Forged from high-tensile steel, the maintenance-free Hippo twistlock features a 12mm vertical clearance that eliminates payload loss, alongside a drop-lock mechanism to prevent fall-offs during handling. When paired with the class-approved Balanced Lashing System, which evenly distributes peak stresses between upper and lower lashings, vessels can safely increase approved stack weights by up to 10% without requiring structural hull modifications.

“I’m very happy to see our Hippo fully automatic twistlocks and Balanced Lashing System so warmly welcomed by the maritime industry,” says Magnus Sjöberg, Executive Vice President, Merchant Solutions Division, MacGregor. “By pairing robust mechanical engineering with load-sharing innovation, we are helping our customers safely unlock additional container capacity, shorten port stays, and achieve significant operational savings.”

MacGregor continues to lead the market in integrated container stowage solutions, offering a comprehensive cargo ecosystem that includes hatch covers, loose and fixed fittings, lashing bridges, lashing optimisation software, backed by global lifecycle support. Designed for seamless integration on both newbuilds and existing fleets, MacGregor’s securing systems enable shipowners to maximise earning potential while maintaining uncompromising safety standards.

Marex Media

Release By MacGregor Press Office

The ship comprises over 75 percent indigenous content and has been conceived as a versatile trial and evaluation platform. Further, the ship is engineered to perform maritime surveillance and reconnaissance, Offshore patrolling and support Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations, when required.

The ship has been aptly named ‘Samarthak’, meaning ‘The Proponent’. The name signifies the ship’s intended role as a dependable enabler of multiple missions. True to its designation, Samarthak is not limited to one specific task but is engineered to support a wide spectrum of activities, thereby embodying the concept of a multi-purpose vessel. 

The delivery of Samarthak is yet another milestone in the Indian Navy’s indigenous shipbuilding journey and a reaffirmation of the Government’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The ship stands as a testament in India’s pursuit towards self-sustaining domestic defence industrial ecosystem.

Marex Media

Release By Public Relations Office (Ministry of Defence)

Due to its remote location, the mine will depend solely on this plant for its power needs. The order was placed by Africa Power Services (APS), the France based main contractor for the engineering, procurement and construction of the power plant, on behalf of Fortuna Mining. It was booked as order intake by Wärtsilä in Q2 2026.

The Wärtsilä 32 engine generating set has established a reputation for reliability during 30 years of successful operations, delivering more than 8,000 MW of energy to customers around the world. Its fast-starting flexibility supports the integration of intermittent supplies of renewable energy, such as wind and solar, into power systems by enabling efficient grid balancing. Fortuna Mining has indicated its intention to add renewable energy to this micro grid in the near future.

“Operating a remote, off-grid mine requires reliable power, as any unscheduled downtime carries financial and operational risks. Wärtsilä’s engines deliver the continuous performance required for such demanding conditions. Selecting them for Diamba Sud ensures we mitigate operational risks from day one, while building a power foundation that can seamlessly integrate renewable energy assets as the mine evolves,” says Cedric Fernandez, Managing Director at APS.

In addition to the engine generating sets, Wärtsilä’s scope includes basic engineering, engine specific auxiliary units, and the engine control and monitoring system. The company will also provide advisory support during the installation and commissioning phases.

“This repeat order from APS reinforces Wärtsilä’s position as a trusted and reliable solution provider for the mining industry’s power needs,” says Marc Thiriet, Energy Business Director, Africa at Wärtsilä Energy. “Mining operations are under dual pressure to maintain maximum uptime while actively charting a path toward decarbonisation. By deploying multiple smaller engine-generating sets instead of a single large unit, we enable the plant to match fluctuating load demands with high precision, maximizing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Critically, these engines feature the starting flexibility required to balance the intermittent nature of solar or wind power, thereby complimenting Fortuna Mining’s future plans to introduce renewables to this microgrid strengthening the mines operational stability.”

The Wärtsilä equipment is scheduled for delivery in March 2027, and the power plant is expected to be operational by the end of that year.

Fortuna Mining is a Canadian mining company that is developing the Diamba Sud Gold Project in Senegal. Acquired in September 2023, the Diamba Sud Gold Project is located in the Kenieba – Koudougou Inlier, a geologically significant area, which hosts several major gold deposits in eastern Senegal and western Mali.

Marex Media

Release By Cision

The Association of Multimodal Transport Operators of India (AMTOI) marked another chapter in its journey on 21^st August, when it held its 27th Annual General Meeting at the Royal Bombay Yacht Club, Mumbai. Bringing together members, industry leaders and stakeholders from the multimodal transport and logistics fraternity, the evening combined a change in leadership with a wider conversation on family businesses, integrated logistics and India’s evolving transport ecosystem.

The AGM saw Mr Devpal Menon take charge as President, with Mr Haresh Lalwani as Vice President, Mr Prashant Popat as Honorary Secretary and Mr Ravindra Gandhi as Honorary Treasurer for the 2026–27 term. The new leadership assumes responsibility at a time when multimodal connectivity is increasingly central to India’s ambitions for more efficient and competitive logistics.

Chief Guest Mr Farhad Forbes, Co-Chairman of Forbes Marshall, used the occasion to turn the spotlight on another important contributor to the Indian economy—family-owned enterprises. Drawing on the strengths and complexities of family businesses, he highlighted the importance of strategy, financial discipline, governance, succession planning and long-term thinking. He also urged families to balance tradition with innovation and equality with merit, while preparing the next generation through education, collaboration and humility. As Forbes noted, “Family businesses combine long-term vision, strong values, financial prudence and deep industry understanding. With effective governance, collaboration and proper preparation of the next generation, they can preserve their legacy, embrace innovation and continue driving India’s economic growth for generations to come.”

Guest of Honour Capt BVJK Sharma, CEO of Navi Mumbai International Airport, brought the discussion back to the logistics sector, arguing that the future would be shaped not by individual modes but by their integration. With ports, airports, roads, railways, warehouses and digital platforms increasingly interconnected, he highlighted initiatives such as PM GatiShakti, the National Logistics Policy, Dedicated Freight Corridors and logistics parks as important building blocks for a more seamless network. Envisioning Mumbai and Navi Mumbai as major integrated logistics gateways, he said, “The future of logistics lies in integration—connecting ports, airports, roads, railways and digital platforms into one seamless ecosystem. India must move from individual modes to integrated networks and transform logistics from a cost into a competitive advantage.”

The evening also witnessed the release of the AMTOI Journal, adding another dimension to the Association’s role as a platform for industry knowledge and professional exchange.

A highlight of the AGM was the presentation of the P. K. Srivastava Award for Excellence in Multimodal Transport to Mr. T. Venkataraman. Instituted in memory of AMTOI’s first President, the late Shri P. K. Srivastava, the biennial award recognises outstanding contribution to India’s multimodal transport and logistics sector. Though unable to attend the ceremony in person, Venkataraman conveyed his appreciation through a recorded message, describing the recognition as both an honour and a responsibility. “I am deeply honoured to receive the P.K. Srivastava Award for Excellence in Multimodal Transport. This recognition is both a privilege and a responsibility, and I remain grateful to the industry, its leaders and colleagues who have shaped my journey,” he said.

AMTOI also acknowledged long-standing member companies through Citations of Honour and Certificates of Loyalty, recognising their continued association with the organisation. The evening concluded with a networking dinner, bringing together the Association’s members, industry leaders, government representatives and distinguished guests.

As AMTOI begins its new leadership term, the 27th AGM reflected an industry increasingly defined by integration, collaboration and long-term thinking—principles that will be critical as India seeks to build a more seamless and globally competitive multimodal logistics ecosystem.

Marex Media