Alang eyeing on MSC’s 45 old Ships
The world’s largest shipping company, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), has brought a wave of optimism to the Alang shipbreaking yard in India. In a move that could revitalize the struggling facility, MSC has announced plans to send 45 of their older vessels to Alang for scrapping in 2024.
Alang has faced a period of economic hardship recently. However, this deal with MSC offers a glimmer of hope. The arrival of a single offshore drilling vessel for scrapping, with two more ships on the way, signifies a potential turnaround.
MSC’s decision to choose Alang is particularly noteworthy because they are known for their stringent ship-scrapping policies. The company prioritizes responsible recycling and only sends its vessels to yards that meet strict environmental and safety standards. These yards must have facilities compliant with the Hong Kong Convention, an international treaty promoting safe and sustainable shipbreaking practices.
Despite these high standards, Alang remains a favourite for MSC. Their preference for the Indian yard suggests that Alang has successfully implemented the necessary upgrades to meet these international regulations. This not only benefits the environment but also creates a much-needed economic boost for the region.
Despite the gloomy atmosphere at the Alang Ship Recycling Yard, there’s a glimmer of hope. One vessel related to offshore drilling has arrived in Alang for scrapping, with two more on the way. MSC owns the world’s largest fleet of ships and adheres strictly to regulations when sending them on their final journey.
MSC selects ship recycling yards with Hong Kong Convention-compliant facilities and international classifications. They only send their ships to yards that meet all policy regulations. However, Alang remains a favourite destination for MSC, with most of their ships being sent there for dismantling. This movement brings a ray of hope to Alang despite the depressing environment. Ship supplies are expected to arrive from June onwards.
The influx of MSC ships is expected to bring a renewed sense of activity to Alang. The arrival of ship supplies, anticipated to begin in June, will further revitalize the local economy.
But why is MSC getting rid of so many ships?
The answer lies in the ever-evolving world of maritime transport. Technological advancements are driving the need for more efficient vessels. Modern ships boast features like lower fuel consumption, increased speed, enhanced cargo capacity, and cutting-edge communication technology. These innovations render older ships obsolete.
To stay competitive, MSC is phasing out 45 of their older vessels. The proceeds from scrapping these ships will be used to fund the construction of new, technologically advanced ships. The company plans to add 30 such vessels to its fleet by 2026.
This move by MSC is a win-win situation. The company gets rid of outdated ships, invests in modern technology, and contributes to a more sustainable shipping industry. For Alang, the deal provides a much-needed economic boost and an opportunity to showcase its commitment to responsible shipbreaking practices. As the first vessels arrive, a sense of hope returns to the Alang shipyard, propelled by the promise of renewed activity and a brighter future.
