News Bulletin: June 2025 – Edition 1
1. DP World Embraces AI and Humanoid Robotics to Transform Logistics
DP World is pioneering the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and humanoid robotics to revolutionize its logistics operations. The company is implementing digital twins of warehouses, collecting data via sensors to optimize goods flow and redesign warehouse layouts. AI is utilized to analyze customer behavior patterns, enhancing supply chain efficiency. In 2024, DP World initiated approximately 150 robotics projects across its 300 global warehouses, involving the deployment of robotic arms and other automation tools. These initiatives aim to streamline operations and improve collaboration between human workers and robotic systems.
Source: SeaTrade Maritime News
2. Cockett Marine Oil to Wind Down Operations After 45 Years
Cockett Marine Oil, a prominent global bunker supplier jointly owned by Vitol and Grindrod since 2012, has announced plans to cease operations after 45 years in the industry. The decision stems from the company’s designation as non-core to both shareholders’ strategic objectives. Despite being financially sound, Cockett will halt new business activities and focus on an orderly wind-down, ensuring all existing contractual obligations are fulfilled. The process will be overseen by CEO Cem Saral and CFO Arnaud Payot, with support from Vitol. All employees across its 11 global offices will receive appropriate compensation packages. The company anticipates settling all supplier and customer accounts within 60 days, marking the end of an era for a significant player in the marine fuel sector.
Source: SeaTrade Maritime News
3. PM Modi Launches ₹1,100 Crore Development Projects at Deendayal Port
On May 27, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several key projects at Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Kandla, Gujarat, totaling over ₹1,100 crore. The initiatives include the inauguration of Oil Jetty No. 8 at Old Kandla, with a capacity of 3.5 million metric tonnes per annum, featuring advanced safety and operational systems. Additionally, a 10 MW Green Hydrogen Production Facility is set to position DPA as a leader in clean energy under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. Infrastructure enhancements such as the construction of three road overbridges and the expansion of port areas for EXIM cargo storage aim to boost operational efficiency and support regional economic growth.
Source: Maritime Gateway
4. PM Modi Unveils ₹24,000 Crore Development Projects in Dahod, Gujarat
On May 26, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth over ₹24,000 crore in Dahod, Gujarat. Key initiatives include the inauguration of a new locomotive manufacturing plant producing 9,000 HP electric locomotives for domestic use and export, and the flagging off of the first such locomotive. Additionally, PM Modi launched the Vande Bharat Express between Veraval and Ahmedabad and an express train between Valsad and Dahod. These projects aim to boost infrastructure, enhance connectivity, and promote economic growth in the region.
Source: India Shipping News
5. India Strengthens Verification of P&I Insurance for Ships at Its Ports
India’s Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has enhanced the verification process for Protection and Indemnity (P&I) insurance certificates of vessels calling at Indian ports. This move follows incidents where insurers declined pollution claims due to invalid certificates stemming from unpaid premiums. Effective from January 2025, port authorities must verify the authenticity and validity of P&I certificates, including premium payment confirmations, through official insurer websites or the Maritime Single Window (MSW) portal. Email-based verifications will be phased out. Ships lacking valid P&I coverage will be denied entry or directed to depart if already in port. These measures aim to uphold maritime safety and environmental protection standards.
Source: ET Infra
6. Smarter Urban Planning: Paving the Way for Sustainable Indian Cities
Eka Infra’s article, “Smarter Urban Planning for Indian Cities,” delves into the pressing challenges and opportunities in India’s urban development landscape. It emphasizes the need for integrated planning approaches that address infrastructure deficits, environmental concerns, and socio-economic disparities. The piece advocates for the adoption of smart technologies, sustainable practices, and inclusive policies to create resilient and livable urban spaces. By highlighting successful case studies and strategic frameworks, Eka Infra underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between government bodies, private sectors, and communities in shaping the future of Indian cities.
Source: Eka Infra
