Bhavnagar, located in the state of Gujarat, India, is renowned for its shipbreaking industry. The Alang-Sosiya Ship Recycling Yard in Bhavnagar is one of the largest shipbreaking yards in the world, contributing significantly to the global demand for recycled steel and materials. Over the decades, the city has become a hub for dismantling decommissioned ships from across the globe, supported by some key players in the industry. Here are some of the top shipbreaking companies operating in Bhavnagar

List of Shipbreaking companies in bhavnagar

1. Alang Ship Recycling Pvt Ltd.

Alang shipping services pvt ltd

The Pioneer of Modern Recycling

With over three decades of operational history, Alang Ship Recycling Pvt. Ltd. stands as a testament to the evolution of the industry. While many yards were still operating manually in the early days, this company was among the first to integrate mechanized processes to improve efficiency and safety.

Their facility is designed to handle vessels of various classes, from bulk carriers to specialized offshore platforms. What sets them apart is their rigorous “Cradle to Grave” approach to hazardous waste. Every component of the ship from the asbestos in the walls to the heavy oil in the engine room is cataloged and disposed of using government-approved treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDF).

  • Key Strength: High compliance with safety protocols and a dedicated environmental management team.
  • Address: 141, Madhav Darshan Complex, Waghawadi Road, Bhavnagar – 364001, Gujarat, India.
  • Contact: +91 9825205202
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: alangship.com

2. Bansal Ship Breakers Private Limited

Bansal Ship breaking

Efficiency and Versatility

The Bansal Group has carved a niche for itself by being incredibly versatile. While some yards specialize only in tankers or cargo ships, Bansal Ship Breakers has the expertise to dismantle a wide variety of vessels, including complex passenger ships and specialized research vessels.

This versatility requires a deep understanding of marine engineering. Passenger ships, for instance, are notoriously difficult to break due to the sheer volume of non-steel material (cabins, furniture, wiring). Bansal’s team effectively segregates these materials, ensuring that valuable items are sent to the second-hand market while recyclable metals are processed efficiently.

  • Key Strength: Expertise in dismantling complex vessel types and efficient material segregation.
  • Address: Atabhai Rd, near Golden Arc, Bharatnagar, Bhavnagar, Gujarat 364001, India.
  • Contact: +91 278 256 8136
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: bansalgroupindia.com

3. LEELA Ship Recycling Pvt. Ltd

leela ship Recycling logo

A Global Leader in Green Recycling

Part of the Leela Group of Ship Recycling Yards, this company operates one of the most sophisticated yards in the Alang-Sosiya belt. Leela Ship Recycling has been a frontrunner in changing the global perception of Alang. They were among the first to receive Statement of Compliance (SoC) from ClassNK, a leading Japanese classification society, certifying that their practices meet stringent global environmental standards.

Their yard features completely impermeable concrete flooring to prevent oil seepage into the soil—a critical environmental safeguard. They also utilize heavy-duty cranes to lift cut blocks directly from the ship to the secondary cutting zone, minimizing contact with the intertidal zone. For international shipowners who prioritize Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Leela is often a preferred partner.

  • Key Strength: ClassNK accreditation and massive infrastructure capable of handling Ultra Large Crude Carriers (ULCCs).
  • Address: Leela Efcee, “B” Wing, Third Floor, Waghawadi Road, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, India.
  • Contact: 0278 252 2111
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: leelagreenship.com

4. Shri Gautam Ship Breaking Industries Pvt. Limited

gautam ship logo

A Legacy of Trust Since 1963

Before Alang became a global hub, the founders of Shri Gautam were already established in the iron and steel industry. When the shipbreaking yard was officially inaugurated in the early 1980s, they were among the first industrialists “handed the baton” to launch operations.

Today, Shri Gautam Ship Breaking Industries is a premier ClassNK-certified Green Ship Recycling Yard. They combine decades of traditional wisdom with modern technology. Their long-standing presence means they have deep relationships with steel rolling mills across Gujarat, ensuring that the scrap generated finds immediate markets. Their focus remains on maximizing material recovery while ensuring zero harm to workers and the environment.

  • Key Strength: One of the oldest and most experienced management teams in the region.
  • Address: Jivan Mansion, Lati Fuvara, Opposite Akshar Purushotam Temple, Bhavnagar 364001.
  • Contact: 0278 2423042
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: shrigautamship.com

5. Kalthia Ship Breaking Pvt. Ltd

Kalthia ship breaking logo

Defining Safety Standards

Established in 1983, coinciding with the inception of the Alang yard, R.L. Kalthia Ship Breaking Pvt. Ltd. has grown into a heavyweight in the sector. The company differentiates itself through its intense focus on worker welfare and training.

Shipbreaking is inherently dangerous work. Kalthia mitigates risks through regular training workshops, strict Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) mandates, and on-site emergency response teams. Their commitment to the “Green Passport” inventory ensures that they know exactly what hazardous materials are on board a ship before it even touches the beach, allowing for pre-planned, safe removal strategies.

  • Key Strength: Exceptional track record in worker safety and HKC-compliant dismantling procedures.
  • Address: 201, Sarthik Complex, Atabhai Chowk, Bhavnagar-364001, Gujarat, India.
  • Contact: +91 278 3005931
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: kalthiashipbreaking.com

The Alang Market: A Treasure Trove

Materials recovered by these companies often find a second life at the Alang Market. This bustling marketplace on the road to the yards is famous for selling:

  • Furniture & Decor: High-quality wood furniture, sofas, and antiques from luxury liners.
  • Industrial Goods: Heavy machinery, generators, tools, and kitchen equipment.
  • Marine Artifacts: Compasses, sextants, ship lights, and wheels.

Why Choose a Bhavnagar-Based Company?

For international shipowners, the decision of where to send an end-of-life vessel is critical. Regulations like the EU Ship Recycling Regulation (EUSRR) and the impending global enforcement of the Hong Kong Convention mean that shipowners retain liability if their ships are scrapped irresponsibly.

Bhavnagar’s top companies offer:

  • Certification: Verification from Lloyds Register, ClassNK, or RINA.
  • Transparency: Detailed reporting on the downstream management of waste.
  • Best Value: The efficient steel market in Gujarat often allows these companies to offer competitive prices for vessels without cutting corners on safety.

How to Choose the Best Shipbreaking Company

Selecting the right partner for ship recycling is a strategic decision involving environmental, legal, and financial considerations.

  1. Check for Green Certifications: Look for Hong Kong Convention (HKC) compliance and ClassNK certification. These indicate the company follows strict global standards for hazardous waste management.
  2. Evaluate Infrastructure: Top-tier companies have impermeable floors (to prevent soil contamination), heavy-duty cranes, and asbestos abatement units.
  3. Safety Record: rigorous safety protocols and a skilled workforce are non-negotiable to prevent accidents during the dismantling of complex vessels.
  4. Track Record & Versatility: Choose a company experienced in handling your specific vessel type (e.g., tankers, cargo ships, or passenger liners) to ensure efficient dismantling and maximum value recovery.

Services Offered by These Companies

  • Ship Dismantling: Safe cutting and breaking of vessel structures.
  • Hazardous Material Management: Safe removal and disposal of asbestos, sludge, and heavy metals.
  • Material Recovery: Salvaging steel, non-ferrous metals (copper, aluminum), and machinery for re-rolling or reuse.
  • Logistics Support: Assisting with the beaching process and obtaining necessary statutory clearances from maritime boards.

Final Thoughts

Shipbreaking companies in Bhavnagar have made significant strides in advancing sustainable recycling efforts while driving economic growth in the region. These companies not only cater to the rising demand for recycled materials but also support thousands of workers, contributing to the local economy. With continuous improvements in technology and adherence to global recycling standards, Bhavnagar’s shipbreaking industry remains a key player in the global market.