The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI) has marked a milestone on the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day by inducting a Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC), SAHYADRI, into its fleet.
This strategic move is in line with the Government of India’s Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 and Maritime India Vision 2030, aimed at enhancing India’s shipping capacity and promoting self-reliance in energy transportation.
Symbol of Atmanirbharta in Shipping
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized that this acquisition reflects the government’s vision for Atmanirbhar Bharat in shipping. With the addition of SAHYADRI, SCI is reinforcing India’s ability to securely and efficiently transport vital energy supplies.
Technical Specifications of SAHYADRI
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Built in South Korea, IMO number 9359478
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Cargo carrying capacity: 82,000 CBM
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Length Overall (LOA): 225 meters
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Width: 36 meters
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Depth: 22 meters
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Classified with DNV and IRS for compliance with international standards, ensuring maritime safety, environmental protection, and operational efficiency
Deployment in Key Trade Routes
The newly inducted VLGC will primarily operate in the LPG trade between the Persian Gulf and India, ensuring a reliable supply chain for the nation’s growing energy needs. This strengthens SCI’s footprint in the LPG segment, which has seen rapid growth in recent years.
Expansion Strategy under MoA
This induction is the first vessel under the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signed on 04 July 2025, for acquiring two second-hand VLGCs. The second vessel, to be renamed SHIVALIK, will soon join the SCI fleet, further enhancing capacity.
Boost to India’s Maritime Growth
With this addition, SCI’s fleet has grown to 57 owned vessels and a total deadweight tonnage of 5.2 million tonnes. The expansion not only boosts SCI’s competitive edge globally but also contributes to India’s long-term maritime growth strategy under Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
The induction of SAHYADRI is a significant step in India’s maritime journey, symbolizing strength, growth, and self-reliance. By expanding its LPG transportation capacity, SCI is reinforcing the nation’s energy security while advancing India’s position as a strong maritime power.
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Source: PIB
