New Delhi, May 6: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a ₹1,570 crore project to establish a state-of-the-art ship repair facility in Vadinar, Gujarat. This initiative is seen as a significant step towards expanding the country’s ship repair sector. The project will be jointly implemented by the Deendayal Port Authority and Cochin Shipyard Limited.
According to an official statement released after the CCEA meeting, the facility will be developed using a brownfield model. It will include a 650-meter-long jetty, two large floating dry docks, workshops, and other maritime infrastructure. Vadinar’s depth, connectivity to major shipping routes, and proximity to ports like Mundra and Kandla make it an ideal location for ship repairs, especially for large foreign vessels.
This project is expected to create new skill development opportunities and increase both direct and indirect employment in the surrounding area. It will also support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and maritime auxiliary services.
The statement further noted that the Vadinar ship repair facility will address a significant gap in India’s ship repair capabilities, as the country currently lacks sufficient capacity for vessels larger than 230 meters. The new facility will enable repairs for ships up to 300 meters in length.
This will allow for the repair of larger vessels domestically, reducing dependence on foreign services and saving foreign currency. Improved repair facilities on the western coast will enhance the competitiveness of Indian ports and improve the turnaround time for ships.
The project is expected to generate approximately 290 direct jobs and around 1,100 indirect employment opportunities in ship repair, logistics, and other related industries.
This initiative is anticipated to accelerate regional economic development and contribute to the country’s long-term maritime goals, such as the ‘Maritime India Vision 2030’ and ‘Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.’
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