Classification society Korean Register (KR) has signed an agreement with the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) to deliver services on behalf of the Indian flag administration, carrying out vessel surveys and issuing certificates according to international conventions.
KR is now able to conduct relevant surveys and audits and to issue certificates to Indian flagged ships for SOLAS, MARPOL, ITC, ICLL and MLC.
India's maritime industry has strong potential for growth because of its geographical location between Asia and Africa and its 7,000-kilometer-long coastline, KR said. India's recent economic growth has dramatically increased the value of its import and export trade. However, the port facilities and vessels to accommodate this growth are lacking. As a result, the Indian government is now actively seeking foreign investment to build port infrastructure and to stimulate the shipping industry, including ship building.
KR has been working to deliver statutory services for the Indian government since 2009, the classification society established an office in Mumbai office and has now successful secured full authorization to provide quality statutory services.
KR has continued to expand its services to governments across the globe and this authorization brings the total number of countries where KR is authorized to carry out ship survey and certification work to 73.