Chennai Port Begins Process to Procure Its First Green Tug

By Admin

18 Nov, 2025

India’s maritime sector is accelerating its shift toward sustainability, and Chennai Port has taken a landmark step in this direction by initiating the procurement of its first green tug.

A Major Step Toward Cleaner Port Operations

In a significant move to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and operational pollution, the Chennai Port Authority has started the process to acquire a green tug its first ever. This development aligns with India’s broader push toward sustainable port operations and cleaner maritime activities.

Why Green Tugs Matter

Harbour tugs play a crucial role in assisting the movement of large vessels during berthing and unberthing. They also support towing operations and other essential marine activities. Traditionally powered by diesel, these tugs contribute notably to emissions within port ecosystems.

Under the Centre’s Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP), major ports across India plan to phase out diesel-powered tugs and switch to green alternatives powered by hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, or advanced battery-electric systems.

Chennai Port’s Transition Plan

Chennai Port currently operates three diesel-powered tugs. As part of the GTTP mandate, the port has floated bids to procure a 60-tonne bollard-pull green tug. The vessel will be supplied, operated, manned, and maintained by a selected agency for 15 years.

Officials expect the vendor selection to be finalised within the next six months. Once awarded, the firm is expected to deliver the tug within two years, marking a critical milestone for cleaner port operations in southern India.

National Sustainability Targets Driving Change

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has set ambitious sustainability goals for all major ports. These include:
• Increasing renewable energy usage to 60% of total consumption
• Reducing emissions from port vessels by 30% by 2030

Several ports such as Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, Deendayal Port Authority, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, and Paradip Port Authority have already begun procurement of green tugs, signalling a nationwide shift toward maritime decarbonisation.

Supporting Infrastructure Already in Place

Chennai Port has been preparing for this transition by installing shore power systems for Indian Navy vessels, Coast Guard vessels, and hired craft. This infrastructure will be scaled up to support the charging and operational needs of the upcoming green tug.

Fully electric tugs can eliminate carbon and nitrogen oxide emissions entirely. Hybrid models, equipped with onboard diesel generators, are expected to reduce emissions by 25–35%.

A Boost to India’s Maritime Decarbonisation Mission

The introduction of green tugs at Chennai Port will significantly strengthen its sustainability profile and contribute to India’s nationwide green port initiatives. As ports embrace cleaner technologies, India is steadily moving toward a more environmentally responsible maritime future.