Symi LPG Carrier Docks at Kandla Port

The Marshall Islands-flagged LPG tanker Symi has successfully docked at Deendayal Port in Kandla, Gujarat, marking a significant arrival for India’s energy supply chain. Carrying approximately 20,000 tonnes of liquefied propane and butane sourced from Qatar, the vessel completed its transit through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz before reaching the Kandla terminal. This arrival highlights the ongoing importance of the Kandla port infrastructure in managing large-scale gas imports and supporting the growing demand for LPG across the Indian subcontinent.

Operations involving the Symi are strictly governed by the International Maritime Organization’s International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk, known as the IGC Code. Compliance with SOLAS Chapter VII and MARPOL Annex II remains critical for vessels transporting hazardous liquefied cargoes. Furthermore, the vessel must adhere to rigorous classification society standards and the International Safety Management (ISM) Code to ensure operational integrity. For compliance departments, maintaining these records is essential for port state control inspections and ensuring seamless turnaround times at major Indian terminals.

For navigating officers and masters, the arrival of the Symi underscores the necessity of precise cargo handling and strict adherence to terminal safety protocols during discharge operations. Navigating officers must ensure that all cargo monitoring systems are fully calibrated and operational before berthing at Deendayal Port. Maintaining clear communication with terminal authorities regarding pressure levels and vapor return lines is vital to prevent operational delays and ensure the safety of the crew during the critical cargo transfer phase.