Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India — Special Service and Features · PIB Thiruvananthpuram · Read the original release on pib.gov.in
Cochin, October 7, 2026 – Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), India’s leading shipbuilding and ship repair organization, marked a significant milestone today with the steel-cutting ceremony for three advanced Battery Electric 70T Bollard Pull Tugs for Svitzer A/S. The ceremony was officiated by Shri. Jens Ove Kymler Rasmussen , New Building Site Manager of Svitzer, who initiated the cutting of the steel in the presence of Dr. Harikrishnan S (Director – Operations), Shri. Harikumar A (CEO, UCSL), Shri. Shiraz V.P. (Executive Director – Shipbuilding), along with other senior officials from CSL and representatives from the classification society ABS.
The ceremony marks another important milestone in the partnership between CSL and Svitzer, following the shipbuilding agreement signed last year for four next-generation battery-electric TRAnsverse 2600e tugs. Designed to handle demanding close-quarter operations, the TRAnsverse tugs can operate across a wide range of vessel types and sizes, including in challenging weather and tidal conditions. Powered by battery-electric propulsion, the vessels will enable zero direct emissions during port and terminal towage operations when charged with green power.
The current order book of CSL group consists of 17 ASTDS tugs and 6 green tugs.
“It is a proud moment for CSL to partner with Svitzer in building four advanced, fully electric TRAnsverse tugs. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to innovation and greener maritime operations, and we look forward to strengthening it further by bringing CSL’s shipbuilding capabilities and expertise in advanced vessels to the forefront. Through such initiatives, CSL is contributing to the decarbonisation of the maritime sector. CSL is also constructing two GTTP tugs under the Government of India’s Green Tug Transition Programme, further strengthening our commitment to green shipbuilding and a more sustainable maritime industry.” said Mr. Jose V J, Chairman and Managing Director of CSL.
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This is an official press release issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), reproduced as issued.
