Mumbai, 15 August 2025

 

The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI) has taken a major step in strengthening its LPG transportation capabilities with the induction of a Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC), SAHYADRI, into its fleet on the eve of 79th Independence Day.

In alignment with the Government of India’s Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 and Maritime India Vision 2030, and under the guidance of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), SCI is expanding its fleet to augment tonnage under the Indian Flag and promote self-reliance in shipping.

On this occasion, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Hon’ble Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways said,

“This is how our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision for Atmanirbharta in Shipping is being turned into a reality”.

This newly acquired vessel bearing IMO number 9359478, built in South Korea, is renamed as “SAHYADRI”, representing the mountain range along the western coast of the Indian peninsula.

The VLGC has a cargo carrying capacity of 82,000 CBM, with 225 meters length overall (LOA), 36 meters in width, and depth of 22 meters. It is classed with both DNV and Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), ensuring strict compliance with the established international standards and regulations thereby enhancing maritime safety, environmental protection, reducing risks and improving efficiency. The vessel’s capacity and technical standards make it a valuable addition to SCI’s energy transportation capabilities, particularly in the fast-growing LPG segment.

With this addition, SCI’s total deadweight tonnage now stands at 5.2 million tonnes with 57 owned vessels. This inducted Gas carrier will be primarily 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.

The acquisition is the first vessel under the MoA signed on 04 July 2025 for two second-hand VLGCs (each with 82,000 CBM capacity) for fleet expansion. The second vessel is going to be renamed as “SHIVALIK”, representing mountain range of the outer Himalayas.

This strategic expansion will 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.

 

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(Source: The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd.)

PIB Mumbai | Nikita Joshi/Darshana Rane

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(Release ID: 2156707)