Gandhinagar, Dec 23 (NationPress) The second edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) for Kutch and Saurashtra, set to take place in Rajkot in January 2026, will emphasize Alang’s four decades of accomplishments and showcase the state’s maritime prowess on an international platform.

Developed under the supervision of the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB), the Alang-Sosiya Ship Recycling Yard has become one of the largest and most reputable ship recycling hubs globally, representing nearly 32 percent of the worldwide ship recycling market. With the support of proactive state policies, transparent operations, stringent safety practices, and a robust environmental framework, Alang serves as a prime example of Gujarat’s maritime advancement. Since its establishment, over 8,800 ships have been recycled at Alang through safe and regulated methods.

Authorities report that approximately 99.95 percent of the materials recovered are reused, establishing Alang as a paradigm of the circular and green economy. Both hazardous and non-hazardous waste generated during the recycling process are disposed of scientifically in accordance with international standards.

Out of 128 plots, 115 are now fully compliant with the Hong Kong Convention (HKC). With the HKC set to be implemented globally from June 2025, Alang has gained recognition as one of the most reliable and environmentally compliant ship recycling centers worldwide. The yard is backed by modern infrastructure, which includes a dedicated ship recycling training institute, a Level-3 multi-specialty trauma hospital for workers, and advanced waste management facilities.

Waste from the recycling process is treated at a TSDF site, which is currently undergoing enhancements to meet future needs. To cater to the increasing global demand, GMB has finalized a comprehensive master plan for Alang, valued at Rs 1,224 crore, which will nearly double the yard’s capacity from the current 4.5 million LDT (Light Displacement Tonnage) soon.

Despite facing global challenges, Alang maintained a steady performance during 2024-25, successfully recycling 113 ships. The start of 2025-26 has already shown a 13 percent rise in ship arrivals, reflecting renewed vigor in the sector.

The Gujarat government has laid out an ambitious plan for Alang, aiming to recycle 15,000 ships over the next decade and increase the capacity from 4.5 million LDT to 9 million LDT by 2035. This initiative also emphasizes enhancing healthcare facilities, worker amenities, maritime skill development, and adopting eco-friendly technologies.

The VGRC-Kutch and Saurashtra, scheduled from January 10 to 12, 2026, will portray Alang not just as a ship recycling yard but as a fully integrated maritime and industrial ecosystem. The conference aims to gather investors, industry leaders, and experts to explore Gujarat’s maritime capabilities and the growing prospects in ship recycling and related sectors.

Officials noted that Alang’s scale and reliability continue to draw investors, presenting ample business opportunities and consistent revenue streams.