Underwater Services Company Poised to Win Green Tug Contract at New Mangalore Port.

Underwater Services Company Ltd, a subsidiary of Samson Maritime Ltd, is poised to secure a 15-year charter contract from the state-run New Mangalore Port Authority for a 60-tonne bollard pull battery-electric tug, multiple sources have confirmed. The company submitted the lowest day rate of ₹6,25,444, which is currently under review by the port authority before being sent for board approval.

This would be the second green tug contract awarded by a major state-owned port following Deendayal Port Authority’s recent deal with Netincon Marketing Pvt Ltd, part of Kolkata-based Ripley Group, in May 2025. Both winning bids—Netincon’s ₹6,30,000 per day and Underwater Services’ ₹6,25,444—are closely aligned in pricing.

The New Mangalore contract is part of the government’s Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP), which aims to phase out conventional fuel-powered harbour tugs at India’s six major ports and replace them with greener alternatives, including battery-electric, hybrid, methanol, and green hydrogen-powered vessels.

Other major ports including Jawaharlal Nehru, VO Chidambaranar, Paradip, and Visakhapatnam have also floated tenders to charter green tugs for up to 15 years. Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority alone has received bids from multiple companies including Underwater Services and Shipping Corporation of India for two electric tugs.

The move towards green tugs is crucial for port operations like berthing, unberthing, and ship assists, where electric propulsion systems can significantly reduce emissions without compromising performance.

A landmark development in India’s green tug initiative is underway at Deendayal Port, where a fully electric tug built by Netincon Marketing and equipped by Norwegian marine technology firm Kongsberg Maritime is expected to be commissioned by Q4 2026. This project represents the world’s first full integration of an all-electric tugboat propulsion and control system.

Annette Holte, Country Manager of Kongsberg Maritime India, described the project as a “technological milestone” and a “strong signal of trust from the Indian maritime industry,” highlighting the collaboration between global expertise and local partners in driving sustainable maritime innovation.

Launched in 2024 by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the GTTP sets a clear roadmap to transition India’s major ports towards greener operations, targeting full adoption of green tugs by 2040. The program prioritizes standardizing designs and specifications to ensure eco-friendly and efficient harbour tug fleets across the country.

With Underwater Services Company’s contract on the verge of approval, New Mangalore Port is set to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and reduce the environmental impact of its operations through cutting-edge green maritime technology.