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Learn all about the world's largest shipbreaking yard, the final destination for colossal vessels that are transformed into valuable materials
Located on the west coast of India, the Alang Shipyard stands out as the largest shipbreaking yard in the world. Since its start of operations in the 80s, it has become one of the main destinations for decommissioned vessels, receiving about half of the ships that are dismantled globally. Its importance in the ship recycling industry is undeniable, but the yard also raises debates about safety and environmental impacts.
The location and operation of ship recycling
The Alang shipyard is located on a 10-kilometer stretch of beach in the town of Alang in the Indian state of Gujarat. The area has become a hub for shipbreaking, where vessels that are no longer in operation are dismantled and recyclable materials are recovered. The process involves beaching the ships on the shore, where they are dismantled manually by local workers using simple tools such as hammers and blowtorches.
The work carried out at Alang enables a range of valuable materials, including steel, copper and aluminium, to be recovered and recycled, providing both economic and environmental benefits. In addition to being an important source of employment for local workers, the shipyard contributes significantly to the local economy, generating revenue from the sale of materials and parts that can be reused.
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Working conditions and environmental concerns
Despite being a vital source of income, working conditions at the Alang shipyard have been criticized over the years. Workers, most of whom are migrants from poorer parts of India, face significant risks when dismantling ships. A lack of adequate safety equipment, exposure to hazardous materials such as asbestos and chemicals, and the physical nature of the work make the environment dangerous. According to estimates by human rights organizations, fatal accidents occur frequently at shipbreaking yards, and Alang is no exception.
In addition to concerns about worker safety, environmental impact is another key issue. The shipbreaking industry has long been criticized for its negative impact on the environment. Dumping toxic waste into the sea, releasing oil and other hazardous substances, and polluting the air are some of the major problems associated with improper ship dismantling. However, over the past few decades, the Indian government has implemented a series of safety regulations and standards aimed at reducing these impacts and making the Alang operation more sustainable. Measures such as improving working conditions, using protective equipment, and environmental monitoring have been adopted.
The role of Alang shipyard in the global shipping industry
Despite the challenges, Alang remains a crucial hub in the global ship recycling industry. The yard has the capacity to dismantle a wide range of vessels, from small barges to giant cargo vessels, oil tankers and cruise ships. One of the yard’s most significant milestones was the dismantling of the world’s largest ship, the supertanker Knock Nevis, which was built in 1979 and measured an impressive 458 meters in length. At 657 tons when fully loaded, Knock Nevis was one of the largest objects ever built by man.
In addition to the Knock Nevis, other large decommissioned vessels have also been dismantled at Alang, including the 260-meter-long French aircraft carrier Clemenceau and the 76-ton Norwegian cruise ship SS Norway. These ships, often retired due to age, damage or obsolescence, are sold to shipbreakers for the value of their materials.
Steel is the main resource recovered during ship dismantling. It is estimated that around 90% of a ship is made up of steel, which is recycled and reused in construction and other industries. The shipbreaking industry in Alang is therefore an important part of the global recycling cycle, contributing to the circular economy and reducing the demand for new raw materials.
Improvements and future challenges
In recent years, the Indian government and international organizations have been working to transform Alang into a model shipyard that is sustainable and safe. Projects to modernize operations and reduce environmental impact are underway. Initiatives such as certifying shipyards according to international safety and environmental standards, such as those set by the Hong Kong Convention, are a step in the right direction.
However, there are still considerable challenges to be addressed. Implementing stricter regulations, training workers to handle hazardous substances and continually improving working conditions are essential to ensure that Alang can continue to play its vital role in the global economy in a responsible and sustainable manner.
The Alang shipbreaking yard is a key component of the global recycling industry. Its ability to dismantle thousands of ships over the decades has positioned it as a world leader in ship recycling, providing valuable materials for the economy and creating jobs for thousands of people. However, safety and sustainability issues remain at the forefront of debate, and Alang’s future will depend on its ability to adapt to higher standards of social and environmental responsibility.
The photo we are in the article is in Türkiye and the report is about Alang in India.
Unfortunately, there are a lot of curious people on this topic talking about things they don't know or understand...
Look, there's some great news. I'd like to have contact with someone who has parts. That part in good condition saves you a peaceful return home. If you don't replace it with a new part,
I have a cartouche that I found in the garbage dump on the ship Eugenio C in 1994.
These photos are old, Alang has undergone a major transformation.
I would say it is as professional and sustainable today as a European shipyard.
Remembering that Europeans always try to diminish what is done overseas.
Alang drives the region's economy and reinvests locally. It owes nothing to the Europeans.
international standard