Captain Anoop Kumar Sharma, CEO and Director of Essar Shipping has said that too much automation aboard ships could be dangerous for seafarers while travelling at sea, according to IHS Maritime 360.
He added that this excessive use of automation could potentially put the lives of seafarers at risk.
Captain Sharma said: “If there is an equipment malfunctioning at sea, nobody is able to repair. I am not against automation but it should be introduced gradually and in phases, giving the crew adequate time to adjust.”
He added that freight rates are also affecting the outlook for shipping but believes that this could be overcome with solutions for lowering shipping costs.
Sharma said: “For example, if we have some in-house cargo moving along the Indian coast, we can fill up our ships with return cargo offering low rates.”
Shipping safety was a key theme at World Maritime Day recently, with the event being centred around the importance in raising awareness for maritime education and training, while being mindful of the importance of maritime security.
