Sonowal Cuts Steel for India's First All-Electric Tug

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, has virtually inaugurated the steel-cutting ceremony for India’s first all-electric green tug, marking a major milestone in the country’s transition toward sustainable maritime operations.

Designed for the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Kandla, the tug is being developed under the Ministry’s Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP), which aims to advance maritime decarbonisation across India. The virtual ceremony was attended by Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shantanu Thakur, along with senior officials from DPA and associated organisations. The tug is under construction at Atreya Shipyard, with technical support from Kongsberg and other partners.

Once operational, the project is expected to significantly contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of India’s shipping sector, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to global sustainability goals.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.