VPA Deputy Chairperson initiates steel cutting of 60T BP Tug at HSL
60T BP tugs will modernise VPA's fleet
Visakhapatnam: Hindustan Shipyard Ltd (HSL) has achieved a significant milestone with the steel-cutting ceremony of the second 60 Ton BP Tug for VPA.
Deputy Chairperson of Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) K. Roshni Aparanji pressed the CNC plasma cutting machine button at the HSL Hull Shop formally commencing fabrication of the tug.
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The contract for construction of the second 60T BP Tug was signed on Dec 22 and within less than two months, steel cutting has commenced, demonstrating HSL's speed of execution and project preparedness. The keel of the first tug has been laid and construction is progressing at a fast pace.
In tune with the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the two 60T BP tugs will modernise VPA's fleet and strengthen its operational capability.
The 32-metre tugs, designed for high manoeuvrability and enhanced escort performance, will support increasing vessel traffic, improve turnaround time, and enhance emergency response readiness.
Capt. G. Venkateswarlu, CMD, HSL, stated, 'Partnering with VPA is a pride for us.' He emphasised that steel cutting marks the formal and tangible beginning of a vessel that will serve the dynamic requirements of Vizag Port.
Highlighting the HSL's execution capability, he highlighted that major national programmes, including complex naval projects such as Fleet Support Ships, are being executed at a strong pace.
He added, 'A nation is not just its soil, but its people. It is the skilled hands of HSL's workforce, MSME partners and the trust of VPA that will give life to this vessel.'
Roshni Aparanji congratulated HSL for commencing steel cutting within two months of contract signing. She underscored the importance of continuous technology upgradation, precision and integrity, and highlighted Visakhapatnam's unique marine ecosystem, urging all stakeholders to strive together to keep Vizag's maritime reputation flying high.
News Posted: 20 February, 2026
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