Officials at Chennai-based Poompuhar say it plans to hire one supramax by the end of April for up to one year to transport coal, with an option to extend.

Locally based coal traders say domestic owners, including Kolkata-based Apeejay Shipping, Chennai-based India Cements, West Asia Maritime and Good-earth Maritime, are all expected to bid for the supramax contract as long-term deals are scarce in the current market.