Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated three groundbreaking infrastructure projects, collectively valued at over Rs. 4,000 crore. These initiatives mark a significant stride towards realising the Prime Minister’s vision of revitalising India’s ports, shipping, and waterways sector while bolstering the nation’s capacity and self-sufficiency.
New Dry Dock (NDD)
One of the highlights of this infrastructure boost is the inauguration of the New Dry Dock (NDD) at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL). This flagship project, crafted at an investment of around Rs. 1,800 crore, stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of New India.
Spanning an impressive 310 metres in length, with a width of 75/60 metres, a depth of 13 metres, and a draught of up to 9.5 metres, the NDD ranks among the largest marine infrastructures in the region. Uniquely, this stepped dry dock features heavy ground loading, positioning India with advanced capabilities to handle strategic assets such as future aircraft carriers weighing up to 70,000 tons. Moreover, it enables the accommodation of large commercial vessels, thereby reducing India’s reliance on foreign nations for emergency national requirements.
International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF)
Another significant project inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi is the International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF), developed at a cost of approximately Rs. 970 crore. This one-of-a-kind facility boasts a ship lift system with a robust 6000-ton capacity, a transfer system, six workstations, and a sprawling berth spanning approximately 1,400 metres. Notably, the ISRF is designed to accommodate seven vessels of 130-metre length simultaneously.
The ISRF plays a crucial role in modernising and expanding CSL’s existing ship repair capabilities. Beyond its immediate impact, the facility represents a strategic step toward positioning Kochi as a global ship repair hub. With its state-of-the-art features, the ISRF is set to transform the landscape of ship repair, enhancing India’s standing in the international maritime arena.
LPG Import Terminal of Indian Oil Corporation Limited
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Rs 1,236 crore LPG Import Terminal of Indian Oil Corporation Limited at Puthuvypeen, Kochi, enhancing India’s energy infrastructure. The state-of-the-art terminal, connected through a 3.5 km pipeline, boasts a 1.2 MMTPA capacity and a 15,400 MT storage. It will cater to Southern India’s LPG needs, ensuring a steady supply and reducing CO2 emissions by 18,000 tons annually. The project also contributes to job creation, generating 3.7 lakh man-days during construction and 19,800 man-days per year during operation, marking a significant stride in fortifying India’s energy security.
Strategic Investments for a Self-Reliant Maritime Future
The inauguration of these major infrastructure projects in Kochi aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s overarching vision to fortify India’s maritime capabilities. These initiatives not only enhance the country’s ability to handle critical naval assets but also contribute to reducing dependence on foreign entities for urgent national requirements.
As India propels itself towards becoming a self-reliant maritime force, these projects stand as beacons of progress, exemplifying the nation’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the field of infrastructure development. The transformative impact of the New Dry Dock and International Ship Repair Facility is poised to resonate not only in Kochi and Kerala but also across the broader maritime landscape, marking a monumental step towards a stronger, more self-sufficient India.
