HSL Lays Keel for First 60-Tonne BP Tug for Vizag Port, Signs Contract for Second Vessel

By Admin

25 Dec, 2025

Introduction
Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) marked a significant milestone in India’s indigenous shipbuilding journey with the keel laying of the first 60-tonne Bollard Pull (BP) tug for the Visakhapatnam Port Authority. On the same occasion, HSL also signed a contract for the construction of a second tug of the same class, reinforcing its role in strengthening India’s port infrastructure under the Make-in-India initiative.

Boost to Indigenous Shipbuilding
The 60-tonne BP tugboats are being completely designed and built in India by HSL, aligning with the objectives of Maritime India Vision 2030 and Aatmanirbhar Bharat. These initiatives aim to modernise port facilities, reduce dependence on imports, and enhance the overall efficiency of the maritime sector. The project reflects India’s growing technical capability in building specialised port support vessels.

Advanced Design for Demanding Port Operations
Each tug measures 32.5 metres in length and is equipped with a bollard pull of 60 tonnes, making it suitable for demanding harbour operations. Bollard pull, a standard measure of a tugboat’s static pulling power, determines its ability to manoeuvre large vessels at low speeds. With increasing vessel sizes and cargo volumes, such high-capacity tugs are essential for safe vessel handling, quicker turnaround times, and smoother port operations.

Strategic Importance for Visakhapatnam Port
Addressing the event, Dr. Madhaiyaan Angamuthu, Chairperson of the Visakhapatnam Port Authority, highlighted the importance of time-bound delivery and quality workmanship in building long-term institutional trust. Expressing confidence in HSL’s capabilities, he stated that the partnership would further strengthen port operations. He also noted that with rising cargo volumes and ambitious expansion plans, modern tugs and supporting infrastructure would be critical for the port’s future readiness.

HSL’s Commitment to Quality and Timely Delivery
Cmde Girideep Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of HSL, thanked the Visakhapatnam Port Authority along with technology partners M/s Vedam and M/s Solas Marine for their continued support. He stated that the twin milestones underline HSL’s strong technical expertise, effective project management, and proven delivery performance. The project reaffirms the shipyard’s commitment to quality, timely execution, customer satisfaction, and the broader Make-in-India shipbuilding vision.

Conclusion
The keel laying of the first 60-tonne BP tug and the contract signing for the second vessel represent more than just a construction milestone they signal India’s growing self-reliance in specialised maritime assets. As ports like Visakhapatnam prepare for higher traffic and larger vessels, such indigenous projects will play a vital role in enhancing operational efficiency and strengthening the national maritime ecosystem.