News Bulletin: April 2025
1. India and Singapore Join Forces to Develop Green and Digital Shipping Corridor
India and Singapore have signed a Letter of Intent to establish a Green and Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC), focused on maritime decarbonization and digital innovation. The collaboration will identify key stakeholders and formalize efforts through a future MoU. It aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime sector by promoting green marine fuels and advanced digital technologies. Leveraging India’s IT expertise and green fuel potential, along with Singapore’s strategic port infrastructure and innovation capabilities, the partnership is set to strengthen bilateral ties and position both nations as leaders in sustainable and smart maritime operations across the region.
Source: ET Infra
2. US port fees on China built vessels would hit grain exporters
The U.S. Trade Representative’s proposal to impose port fees on Chinese-built ships has raised significant concerns among American grain exporters. Companies like The Andersons warn that such fees could increase shipping costs by $0.50 to $1.25 per bushel, representing a 10% to 30% price hike on commodities like wheat, corn, and soybeans. This escalation may reduce the competitiveness of U.S. agricultural products in global markets, adversely affecting farmers and the broader agricultural sector. Stakeholders are urging exemptions for agricultural exports to mitigate potential economic impacts.
Source: SeaTrade Maritime
3. Indian Ports Bill Introduced in Lok Sabha to Modernize Port Governance
On April 1, 2025, Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal introduced the Indian Ports Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha. The bill aims to consolidate existing port laws, promote integrated development, and enhance ease of doing business to optimize India’s coastline utilization. It proposes establishing State Maritime Boards for effective management of non-major ports and a Maritime State Development Council for structured sector growth. Additionally, the bill addresses pollution control, disaster management, security, and navigation at ports, ensuring compliance with international obligations. However, concerns were raised about potential centralization of control over ports.
Source: Maritime Gateway
4. BEML Secures ₹405 Crore Contract for Bangalore Metro Expansion
BEML Ltd. has been awarded a ₹405 crore contract by Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) to supply seven additional metro trainsets (42 cars) for Phase 2 of the Bangalore Metro Rail Project. This order increases the total number of trainsets under the contract from 53 (318 cars) to 60 (360 cars). The new trainsets will feature advanced technology, enhanced safety features, and improved passenger comfort, aiming to boost the efficiency and reliability of Bangalore’s expanding metro network. BEML operates across three key sectors: defense and aerospace, mining and construction, and rail and metro, with manufacturing facilities in Bengaluru, Kolar Gold Fields, Mysore, and Palakkad.
Source: Maritime Gateway
5. RVNL Secures ₹554.64 Crore Contract for Six-Lane Road to Visakhapatnam Port
Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) has been awarded a ₹554.64 crore contract by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to construct a six-lane, access-controlled road connecting Sabbavaram bypass to Sheelanagar junction on NH-516C in Andhra Pradesh. The 12.66 km project, featuring a 1.596 km elevated section, aims to enhance connectivity to Visakhapatnam Port, facilitating efficient freight movement and reducing travel time. Awarded under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM), the project is slated for completion within two years, followed by a 15-year operation and maintenance period.
Source: Maritime Gateway
6. Eka Infra’s National Safety Week 2025: Fostering a Culture of Safety and Well-Being
Eka Infra celebrated the 54th National Safety Week from March 4 – 10, 2025, under the theme “Safety and Well-Being: Crucial for Viksit Bharat.” Activities at the head office included a Safety and Health Oath and an ESG Excellence Competition. At project sites, the week featured flag hoisting, safety training, health check-ups, motivational talks, and awards for outstanding contributions. The celebration concluded with team-building and a cake-cutting ceremony. The initiative reinforced Eka Infra’s ongoing commitment to promoting safety, health, and ESG values across all operations.
For more details on our National Safety Week celebrations, please visit our official event post.
