Kolkata : Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE) has secured a Letter of Intent (LOI) from Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority (SMPA), Kolkata, for the construction of a 15-Tonne Bollard Pull Electric Battery Propulsion Tug along with the installation of shore charging infrastructure for the Kolkata Dock System (KDS).
The contract, valued at ₹37,94,48,131 (approximately ₹37.94 crore), including applicable GST and taxes, marks another significant milestone in India’s transition toward green maritime transportation and sustainable port operations. The Letter of Intent was received by GRSE on August 3, 2026, and the company has officially disclosed the development to the stock exchanges under Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations.
Key Highlights of the Order
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Awarding Authority | Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority (SMPA), Kolkata |
| Executing Company | Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) |
| Project | Construction of One 15-Tonne Bollard Pull Electric Battery Propulsion Tug |
| Additional Scope | Installation of Shore Charging Infrastructure for Kolkata Dock System (KDS) |
| Order Value | ₹37.94 Crore (Including GST and Taxes) |
| LOI Received On | August 3, 2026 |
A Step Towards Green Port Infrastructure
The project represents one of the early deployments of a fully electric battery-powered harbour tug by a major Indian port. Unlike conventional harbour tugs powered by diesel engines, the new vessel will operate entirely on electric battery propulsion, significantly reducing carbon emissions, air pollution, and noise levels within the busy port environment.
Electric harbour tugs are increasingly being adopted worldwide as ports seek cleaner and more energy-efficient alternatives to traditional marine vessels. By introducing battery-powered propulsion technology, the project aligns with India’s broader commitment to decarbonising the maritime sector and promoting sustainable shipping practices.
Supporting Sustainable Maritime Operations
The inclusion of shore charging infrastructure as part of the project is equally significant. The charging system will enable efficient recharging of the tug’s battery while docked, ensuring uninterrupted operations and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
The initiative is expected to:
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions from port operations.
- Reduce operational noise, improving the working environment within the port.
- Enhance energy efficiency through clean electric propulsion.
- Support India’s Green Port initiatives and maritime sustainability goals.
- Promote environmentally responsible harbour operations.
The project demonstrates how Indian ports are gradually embracing modern technologies to improve operational efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.
GRSE Expands Beyond Defence Shipbuilding
Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd., one of India’s premier Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) under the Ministry of Defence, has traditionally been known for designing and building warships, patrol vessels, survey ships, and other specialized naval platforms for the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard.
In recent years, however, the company has strategically diversified into the commercial shipbuilding and green maritime technology segments.
The electric tug project reflects GRSE’s growing capabilities in developing environmentally friendly marine solutions that cater to the evolving needs of commercial ports and the global shipping industry.
Importance of Electric Harbour Tugs
Harbour tugs play a critical role in assisting large cargo vessels, tankers, and container ships during berthing, unberthing, and maneuvering within port limits.
Battery-powered tugs offer several advantages over conventional diesel-powered vessels, including:
- Zero direct exhaust emissions during operations.
- Lower operating and maintenance costs.
- Reduced fuel consumption.
- Improved energy efficiency.
- Lower noise and vibration levels.
- Enhanced environmental compliance with evolving global maritime standards.
As ports worldwide adopt cleaner technologies, electric propulsion is emerging as an important solution for reducing the maritime sector’s environmental footprint.
Boost to India’s Green Shipping Vision
The order complements the Government of India’s ongoing efforts to promote green shipping, clean energy, and sustainable maritime infrastructure. Electrification of harbour support vessels is expected to play an important role in achieving the country’s long-term environmental and climate objectives.
The project also supports the modernization of Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, formerly known as Kolkata Port, by introducing advanced and eco-friendly marine assets into its operational fleet.
Stock Exchange Disclosure
GRSE has informed the stock exchanges about the receipt of the Letter of Intent in compliance with Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, ensuring timely disclosure of material business developments to investors and stakeholders.
Looking Ahead
The ₹37.94 crore electric tug project further strengthens GRSE’s position as a leading Indian shipbuilder capable of delivering both advanced defence platforms and next-generation green commercial vessels. As demand for sustainable maritime solutions continues to grow, projects such as this are expected to accelerate the adoption of electric propulsion technologies across Indian ports.
The order not only reinforces GRSE’s expanding commercial portfolio but also marks another significant step toward building a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable maritime ecosystem in India.
