Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Unveils Green Tug Transition Program SOP

In a significant stride towards fostering sustainability in the maritime sector, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal officially launched the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP) on Friday. This groundbreaking initiative aims to propel India’s maritime industry towards a greener future.
The GTTP is set to revolutionize the country’s tug fleet by replacing outdated diesel-powered tugs with state-of-the-art zero-emission vessels. This transition aligns with broader environmental goals and underscores India’s commitment to combating climate change through innovative maritime solutions.
According to the official statement, the GTTP is projected to involve an investment of approximately Rs 1,000 crore. This substantial financial commitment reflects the scale and ambition of the program, which is poised to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the maritime sector.
The program will be executed in phases, with Phase 1 commencing on October 1, 2024. This initial phase will extend until December 31, 2027, during which the groundwork for the transition will be laid and key milestones are expected to be achieved.
Sonowal highlighted the importance of this initiative in his address, emphasizing that the move towards zero-emission tugs not only represents a technological advancement but also a crucial step towards achieving India’s environmental objectives. “The launch of the GTTP marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards a sustainable maritime sector. This program will not only modernize our tug fleet but also set a benchmark for green practices in the industry,” Sonowal stated.
The GTTP aligns with India’s broader strategy to enhance environmental sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions across various sectors. The initiative is anticipated to pave the way for future innovations in maritime technology and serve as a model for other nations striving for greener maritime practices.
As the maritime sector gears up for this transformative shift, the GTTP stands as a testament to India’s dedication to environmental stewardship and technological advancement in the quest for a cleaner, greener future.