Ship Recycling Yard Proposed for Coastal Karnataka: Government Remains Noncommittal
Karnataka’s coastline may soon witness the rise of a modern, eco-friendly ship recycling yard, positioning the state as a hub for sustainable ship dismantling. However, the government’s stance on the proposal remains unclear.
Mangalore: A proposal to establish a state-of-the-art ship recycling yard in the minor port areas of coastal Karnataka, including potential locations such as Mangalore, Karwar, Honnavar, or Bekal, has been submitted to the state government. The initiative, put forth by S Mohanadas Hegde, a member and former secretary of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee, aims to create a facility that aligns with international safety and environmental standards.
In an exclusive conversation with Bizz Buzz, Hegde emphasized the project’s focus on sustainability and economic viability. “The objective of this project is to establish a modern, environmentally sustainable, and economically viable shipbreaking yard in the minor port areas along the coast of Karnataka,” he said. The proposed yard is expected to generate employment, promote eco-friendly practices, and enhance the region’s maritime infrastructure.
The proposal envisions transforming coastal Karnataka into a global leader in greenship recycling, delivering significant economic benefits to the state while adhering to international safety and environmental norms. Once implemented, the project promises to boost both direct and indirect employment opportunities and foster the development of allied industries such as steel reprocessing, metal recycling, and environmental management.
Government Response Uncertain
Despite the promising aspects of the proposal, the Karnataka government remains noncommittal. A government official, when contacted, stated, “We have received a number of proposals from Hegde, including this one. However, it is difficult to say anything further on this at the moment.”
The ship recycling yard would be strategically located within minor ports that offer proximity to shipping lanes and possess robust port infrastructure, land availability, and accessibility. The ports of Mangalore, Karwar, Honnavar, and Bekal are considered ideal for such development.
Adhering to Global Standards
The proposed facility would comply with guidelines from the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships and International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards. It would integrate advanced systems for managing hazardous materials like asbestos, heavy metals, and oil residues. Measures to prevent environmental pollution, including water, air, and soil contamination, are central to the project.
Green technologies, recycling, and waste minimization strategies will be prioritized to ensure minimal environmental impact. These practices are designed to align with global trends towards sustainable industrial processes.
Economic and Employment Benefits
The ship recycling yard is expected to create thousands of jobs, from skilled labour roles in shipbreaking to administrative and managerial positions. The project would also stimulate ancillary businesses such as logistics, transportation, waste management, and safety equipment services.
Moreover, the ship recycling industry could generate substantial revenue through the sale of scrap materials like steel, copper, and aluminium, as well as reusable ship components. This economic activity could further support the growth of industries related to steel manufacturing, equipment production, and ship dismantling.
Infrastructure and Investment Needs
Developing the yard will require significant infrastructure, including docking facilities, cranes, forklifts, cutting equipment, and storage for scrap materials. Enhanced road and rail connectivity will be crucial for efficient transportation of materials, and modern storage facilities will help manage processed scrap materials.
Worker safety is a top priority, with plans for safe working conditions, protective gear, and proper training. Environmental protection infrastructure such as waste treatment, water purification, and air filtration systems will be integral to the design.
Regulatory and Financial Roadmap
To proceed, the project must secure environmental clearances from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and the State Pollution Control Board. Additionally, maritime and port authority approvals, including those from the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) and the Indian Ports Association (IPA), will be required. The facility will also need to comply with the Factories Act, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, and other labour laws.
The estimated investment for the project is substantial, encompassing infrastructure development, machinery, and adherence to international standards. Funding options could include government subsidies, private investments, and partnerships with international recycling companies. A public-private partnership (PPP) model may be explored to attract technical expertise and share risks.
Market Potential
There is a strong demand for processed scrap metals from domestic steel mills, construction companies, and manufacturing sectors. International markets, particularly in countries with large steel industries, also present opportunities for revenue generation.
To ensure long-term success, the ship recycling yard must maintain continuous compliance with regulatory standards. Regulative bodies will conduct regular audits and closely monitor performance metrics such as environmental impact, job creation, and revenue generation.
While the proposed ship recycling yard presents a promising opportunity to boost Karnataka’s economy and promote sustainable industrial practices, the state government’s cautious approach leaves the project’s future uncertain. As stakeholders await a formal decision, the initiative highlights the balancing act between economic development and regulatory prudence that defines modern infrastructure projects in India.
For now, the proposed ship recycling yard remains a vision, awaiting the green light to transform Karnataka’s coastline into a beacon of green maritime industry.
Credit: https://www.bizzbuzz.news/national/ship-recycling-yard-proposed-for-coastal-ktaka-govt-noncommittal-1352795
