NewKerala.com

INSV Kaundinya Sails Ancient Trade Route, Braces for Modern Tanker Traffic

The Indian Navy's INSV Kaundinya, a traditionally built 'stitched' vessel, has completed over two-thirds of its maiden voyage from Porbandar to Muscat. The ship, which uses no engine and relies solely on wind and ancient techniques, is now entering a high-traffic corridor for oil tankers and container ships. Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the effort, highlighting its role in reviving India's historic maritime links. The voyage retraces ancient trade routes once used by Indian merchants to connect with the Gulf and Southeast Asia.

Key Points: INSV Kaundinya's Historic Voyage Revives India's Maritime Legacy

  • Stitched ship with no engine or metal nails
  • Depends on 5th-century shipbuilding methods
  • Retracing historic India-Oman trade corridor
  • Entering busy modern shipping lane
3 min read

INSV Kaundinya completes two-thirds of voyage, enters busy oil tanker corridor

Indian Navy's stitched ship INSV Kaundinya completes 2/3 of its maiden voyage from Porbandar to Muscat, retracing ancient trade corridors.

"We will soon face a problem the ancient mariners did not face - oil tankers and large container vessels. - Sanjeev Sanyal"

New Delhi, Jan 11

The Indian Navy's INSV Kaundinya, which embarked on its maiden voyage from Porbandar to Muscat in Oman, is sailing strongly in the high seas and is believed to have completed two-thirds of its journey while bracing for encountering oil tankers as it enters a heavy traffic corridor, said an official on Sunday.

Unlike the modern vessels, the INSV Kaundinya is a 'stitched' ship and has no engine, no metal nails, and no modern propulsion. It depends entirely on wind, sails, and a shipbuilding method dating back to the fifth century.

Sharing an update about the voyage of the indigenously built sailing vessel, Sanjeev Sanyal, member of Prime Minister Modi's Economic Advisory Council, wrote, "Update day 13. After yesterday's update, we had several bouts of heavy rain. Everything is damp after that. Also, the local system disrupted the wind, but it is now back from the east. We did, however, get a nice sunset. It was still drizzling when we raised the sails. Now more than 2/3 done."

"We will soon face a problem the ancient mariners did not face - oil tankers and large container vessels. So far, we encountered the occasional one, but tomorrow we will enter a heavy traffic corridor," said Sanyal in a social media post.

On its personal social media handle, INSV Kaundinya said, "After a calm spell, favourable winds returned overnight, enabling steady progress through the morning. With a significant portion of the voyage completed, #INSVKaundinya continues to press ahead through variable winds caused by a local weather system, reflecting the enduring spirit of the #IndianNavy and its #MaritimeLegacy."

When the Kaundinya embarked on its voyage on December 29, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the designers, artisans, shipbuilders and the Indian Navy for their dedicated efforts in bringing it to life.

The Prime Minister, while taking to the social media platform X, said, "My best wishes to the crew for a safe and memorable journey, as they retrace our historic links with the Gulf region and beyond."

The historic expedition marks a major milestone in India's efforts to revive, understand and celebrate its ancient maritime heritage through a living ocean voyage.

Notably, the sea route from India to Oman and to Southeast Asia was once a major trade corridor and was widely used by Indian sailors and merchants to trade spices, textiles, and ideas with West Asia, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

By navigating the sea lane again, the INSV Kaundinya is retracing India's ancient maritime highways.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Fascinating project. The contrast between a 5th-century vessel and modern oil tankers is a powerful metaphor. Hope this voyage inspires more people to learn about India's rich maritime history, which often gets overshadowed.
P
Priya S
While I appreciate the sentiment, I do hope the Navy has taken all safety precautions. A sailboat in a heavy traffic corridor for giant ships sounds risky. The crew's bravery is commendable, but safety first.
R
Rohit P
Our ancestors were true masters of the sea. Trading spices and textiles from Porbandar to Oman and beyond... this voyage brings that history to life. More such projects are needed for the younger generation.
M
Michael C
The logistical challenge alone is impressive. Navigating by wind in the 21st century, dealing with rain and dampness, and now modern ship traffic. This is a real adventure. Following the updates with great interest!
K
Kavya N
It's a wonderful initiative, but I can't help thinking about the resources spent. In a respectful critique, I hope the knowledge gained is practically applied, perhaps in sustainable coastal transport or tourism, and not just a symbolic gesture.
V
Vikram M
"Retracing our historic links with the Gulf region" – this is the best part. Our

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50