Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) has introduced India’s first Port of Refuge, marking a key step in strengthening the country’s maritime safety system. As India’s largest port operator, handling nearly 27% of the nation’s cargo, APSEZ is addressing a long-standing gap by creating a formal system to support ships in distress and manage emergencies more effectively.
A Port of Refuge is a designated safe zone where vessels facing trouble can stabilise, protect crew, and minimise environmental damage. While common in major maritime nations, India lacked such a structured framework until now, despite its extensive coastline and strategic position along global shipping routes.
APSEZ has identified two locations for this facility: Dighi Port on the west coast and Gopalpur Port on the east coast. These sites will support vessels across key trade routes, offering services like salvage operations, firefighting, pollution control, and coordinated emergency response through specialised teams and equipment.
The initiative is supported by partnerships with global experts, including SMIT Salvage and the Maritime Emergency Response Centre, ensuring access to international-level expertise. It aligns with global maritime standards and is expected to improve response times, enhance safety, and protect both cargo and the coastal environment, strengthening India’s role in global shipping.
