Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) will play a central role in building and operating the proposed ship repair facility at Vadinar, Gujarat, bringing in critical infrastructure including two large floating dry docks at an estimated cost of ₹920 crore.
The project, to be implemented in partnership with Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, entails a total investment of ₹1,570 crore. While CSL will lead the technical and operational side, DPA will develop the civil infrastructure, including jetties, with an outlay of around ₹650 crore.
Building scale in ship repair
Planned as a brownfield development, the Vadinar facility will feature a 650-metre jetty, floating dry docks, workshops and associated marine infrastructure. The project is aimed at creating large-scale repair capabilities on India’s western coast.
Vadinar’s natural deep draft, proximity to key ports such as Mundra and Kandla, and access to major global shipping routes make it a strategically advantageous location, particularly for servicing large commercial and foreign-flagged vessels.
Addressing capacity constraints
The facility is expected to bridge a critical gap in India’s ship repair ecosystem. At present, the country lacks sufficient infrastructure to handle vessels exceeding 230 metres in length. With the ability to service ships up to 300 metres, the Vadinar project will enable high-value repairs to be carried out domestically.
This is likely to reduce reliance on overseas shipyards, curb foreign exchange outflows and improve turnaround times for vessels operating along the western coast.
Economic multiplier
Beyond core repair capabilities, the project is expected to create a wider economic ripple effect. It is projected to generate around 290 direct jobs and about 1,100 indirect employment opportunities across ship repair, logistics and ancillary industries.
The development is also expected to spur skill creation and support the growth of MSMEs and maritime service providers in the region.
Strategic fit
The Vadinar ship repair facility aligns with India’s broader maritime ambitions under Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, aimed at strengthening domestic capabilities and enhancing global competitiveness.