Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP)

Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP): The Union Minister of Port Shipping and Waterways was recent launched the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP).

• About: GTTP was launched on May 22, 2023, as a key initiative under the ‘Panch Karma Sankalp’.

  o It aims to phase out conventional fuel-based harbour tugs operating in Indian Major Ports and replace them with green tugs powered by cleaner and more sustainable alternative fuels.

  o Implementation Phases: Phase 1 will begin on October 1, 2024, and continue until December 31, 2027.

  o During this phase, four Major Ports — Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, Deendayal Port Authority, Paradip Port Authority, and V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority — will procure or charter at least two green tugs each, based on standardized designs and specifications issued by the Standing Specification Committee (SSC).

  o Nodal Agency: The National Centre of Excellence in Green Port & Shipping (NCoEGPS) will act as the nodal entity for this programme.

  o Aim: India aims at becoming a ‘Global Hub for Green Ship’ building by 2030.

  o The ‘Green Hybrid Tugs’ will be powered by Green Hybrid Propulsion systems, and will subsequently adopt non-fossil fuel solutions like Methanol, Ammonia, and Hydrogen.