Sonowal welcomes India-flagged gas carrier Shivalik at Vizag Port

In a proud moment for India’s maritime sector, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Mr Sarbananda Sonowal, welcomed the Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC) Shivalik at Visakhapatnam Port on Monday, October 6, 2025, marking its maiden call under the Indian flag. Shivalik, recently acquired by the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), represents India’s growing capability in handling liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) logistics and deep-sea cargo movement. The vessel, inducted into the national fleet last month, underscores the government’s thrust on ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and the expansion of the Indian merchant fleet, emphasised a communique. 

Shivalik is expected to strengthen India’s energy logistics and reduce dependence on foreign-flagged vessels for LPG transportation. It also reinforces Visakhapatnam’s growing role as a key energy and trade gateway on the eastern coast. Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Sonowal highlighted the vessel’s arrival as a proud moment for Indian shipping and a step forward toward becoming a global maritime leader.

The vessel carried out its first unloading in the august presence of the Minister, besides MP Mr Mathukumilli Sribharat, MLA Mr Vamsi Krishna Srinivas, Dr Madhaiyaan Angamuthu, Chairperson, Visakhapatnam Port Authority, Capt. B. K. Tyagi, CMD, The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd, and other senior officers of VPA and SCI along with the ship’s crew, the communique added.

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