Rakesh Khetan, CEO of Wirana Shipping, has urged for swift action by designated Comptetent Authorities in India to resolve difficulties faced by ship recyclers in getting Document of Authorisation for Ship Recycling issued for their ship recycling facility, which shipowners are now requesting as part of documentation when deciding where to recycle their vessels.

The company’s 14 September Market Outlook reports that only around 36-40 Indian Ship Recycling Facilities have received a DASR. This represents less than half of the facilities Wirana identifies as certified under the Hong Kong Convention (HKC).

The report identifies DASR as documentation required for issuing a vessel’s International Ready for Recycling Certificate. Owners therefore need clarity on which facilities hold the necessary authorisation when making recycling arrangements.

The call comes as Indian recyclers compete for limited vessel supply. Stronger domestic steel demand and fewer available ships have encouraged SRF to raise their offers by around USD 10–15/LT LDT. Wirana expects offers to remain strong in the coming weeks.

Alongside its concerns over DASR delays, the company reports positive support and engagement from the authorities on credit note issuance.

Mr Khetan said: “Shipowners are asking for DASR, and they need a clear answer when considering a recycling facility. The delays need urgent attention so that owners and SRF can plan with greater certainty. We are mindful of the fact that India has very high number of HKC certified SRF and this would pose a logistical challenge but steps from the designated Competent Authorities will help resolve the difficulties faced by ship recyclers. The support we have seen on credit note issuance is encouraging. We would welcome the same practical cooperation on DASR to help move authorisations forward and give owners confidence when arranging recycling in India.”

Hitesh Vyas, Vice President Middle East and Green Recycling Coordinator at Wirana Shipping, added: “The safety and environmental checks behind these authorisations must be maintained. Expidited processes without compromising the standards of the HKC is very important.”