India’s First Port of Refuge Mechanism Launched by Adani Ports | 31 Mar 2026

Why in News?

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) has operationalised India’s first Port of Refuge (PoR) mechanism to strengthen maritime safety.

Key Points

• India’s First Port of Refuge: APSEZ has launched the country’s first Port of Refuge (PoR), establishing a systematic framework to manage maritime emergencies and assist vessels in distress.
  • The International Maritime Organization defines a Port of Refuge (PoR) as a designated location where ships facing difficulties can seek shelter to stabilize their situation, safeguard human life, and minimize environmental damage.
• Two-Port Model: The PoR framework will initially operate through Dighi Port on the west coast and Gopalpur Port on the east coast, providing strategic coverage across India’s coastline. 
• Global Collaboration: The initiative is supported through a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SMIT Salvage and the Marine Emergency Response Centre (MERC) to provide international expertise in maritime rescue and emergency response.
• Emergency Response Services: The mechanism will enable coordinated services such as salvage operations, firefighting, wreck removal, pollution containment, and cargo stabilisation during maritime incidents.
• APSEZ: Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited is India’s largest private port operator and part of the Adani Group, operating multiple ports and logistics infrastructure across the country.