SCI inducts huge carrier to further self-reliance in LPG transport
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The induction of the South Korea-built 225-metre-long, 36-metre-wide, carrier raises SCI's deadweight tonnage to 5.2 million tonnes and the strength of its owned fleet to 57 vessels.
Sahyadri, named after the mountain range along India's western coast, will transport LPG between the Persian Gulf and India, ensuring vital energy supply. Another Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC) vessel, to be renamed Shivalik, will join SCI's fleet later this financial year.
Officials said the acquisition reflects the govt's push to build a self-reliant, globally competitive shipping sector and reduce dependence on foreign tonnage for strategic cargo. 'Every addition to our fleet is a step towards a stronger, self-reliant maritime India. With the growing fleet of Indian flagged vessels, we are moving towards our maritime goal of becoming Atmanirbhar and propelling economic growth to become Viksit Bharat,' port and shipping minister Sarbananda Sonowal said.
In a statement, the SCI said, 'With Sahyadri joining the fleet, India sails one step closer to its 2047 goal — a proud maritime nation commanding a larger share of global trade and securing its economic future at sea'.
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