APM Terminals Pipavav welcomes Vertom Rita: a 'Make in India' milestone

APM Terminals Pipavav — itself a groundbreaker terminal in its net zero goals — celebrated the arrival of the Vertom Rita on its maiden voyage earlier this month. This hybrid vessel embodies India's vision of maritime excellence and decarbonisation.

The Vertom Rita is powered by a hybrid system combining fuel and electric energy to reduce fuel consumption by 50%, significantly cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Its onboard innovations — including seawater-to-drinking-water systems — eliminate plastic dependency, further cementing its role as a pioneer in sustainable shipping.

Built by Chowgule Shipyard at Mormugao, Goa, under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, the 5,200 MT capacity ship is owned by Vertom Shipping B.V. and marks a milestone in India's growing shipbuilding capabilities.

On its maiden voyage, the vessel carried a full shipment of guar destined for Scandinavian markets. The vegetable protein is produced by Greenfields Derivatives Pvt. Ltd., and is grown in water-scarce deserts without deforestation, as an alternative to animal-based protein (such as fishmeal) in aqua feed.

APM Terminals Pipavav was the logical and proud port of choice to welcome the Vertom Rita for this future-forward voyage.