In Alang, India, once bustling as the world’s largest ship-breaking yard, the number of ships arriving has drastically declined over the past decade. Factors such as shipowners delaying the retirement of aging vessels due to post-COVID profits and global disruptions, including conflicts affecting trade routes, have led to empty yards and reduced operational capacity. As a result, only about 20 of the original 153 plots remain functional. The industry is also facing increased compliance costs following adherence to the Hong Kong International Convention.
