In a significant development aimed at transforming India’s maritime landscape, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated three key infrastructure projects in Kochi, Kerala, with a combined value exceeding ₹4,000 crore. The projects, including the New Dry Dock (NDD) at Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), the International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF) of CSL, and Indian Oil Corp Ltd’s LPG Import Terminal at Puthuvypeen, Kochi, are strategically designed to propel India’s ports, shipping, and waterways sector into a new era of capacity enhancement and self-reliance.
The New Dry Dock at CSL, constructed at an estimated cost of ₹1,800 crore, stands as a testament to India’s engineering prowess. Positioned as one of the largest dry docks in the region, it has the capacity to accommodate future aircraft carriers and large commercial vessels. This infrastructure marvel aligns with India’s maritime ambitions and positions the country as a formidable player in shipbuilding.
The ISRF, a project valued at around ₹970 crore, aims to modernize CSL’s ship repair capabilities, positioning Kochi as a major ship repair hub. This facility will contribute to the growth of the shipbuilding and repair sector, attracting domestic and international business opportunities.
Indian Oil’s LPG Import Terminal, an investment of approximately ₹1,236 crore, is a critical addition to the energy infrastructure. This terminal is expected to ensure a consistent supply of LPG in the region, contributing to India’s energy accessibility and self-reliance.
The inauguration event witnessed the presence of Kerala’s governor Arif Mohammed Khan, chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Union minister for ports, shipping and waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, and other dignitaries.
Prime Minister Modi, in his address, emphasized the pivotal role of states in India’s journey towards becoming a ‘Viksit Bharat’ during the Amrit Kaal. Reflecting on the historical significance of ports in India’s prosperity, he envisioned their crucial role in the contemporary era as India emerges as a key player in global trade.
The prime minister highlighted the government’s comprehensive efforts to bolster port cities like Kochi. Initiatives under the Sagarmala Project, including augmenting port capacity, investing in infrastructure, and enhancing connectivity, underscore India’s commitment to revolutionizing the maritime sector. The newly inaugurated projects, including shipbuilding, ship repairing, and the LPG import terminal, are set to stimulate development in Kerala and the southern region.
PM Modi expressed pride in the ‘Made in India’ aircraft carrier INS Vikrant being constructed at the Kochi Shipyard, emphasizing that the new facilities would significantly amplify the shipyard’s capabilities. He noted the sectoral reforms over the last decade, attracting new investments and creating job opportunities.
The prime minister highlighted the growth in the number of Indian seafarers, citing a 140% increase due to regulatory reforms. He also underscored the impressive double-digit annual growth of Indian ports in the last decade, surpassing many developed nations in ship-turnaround time.
Discussing India’s role in global trade, PM Modi mentioned agreements made during India’s G20 Presidency, particularly the Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. This corridor is expected to bolster India’s coastal economy, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat. He also referred to the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision, outlining a roadmap to strengthen India’s maritime prowess.
PM Modi lauded the significance of the New Dry Dock, terming it a national pride that would facilitate docking of large vessels, enhance shipbuilding and repair capabilities, reduce foreign dependency, and conserve foreign exchange. The International Ship Repair Facility was acknowledged for elevating Kochi as a prime ship repair center in India and Asia. The new LPG Import Terminal was recognized for meeting the LPG needs of multiple regions, supporting local industries, economic activities, and job creation.
PM Modi acknowledged the vital role of the fishermen community in the blue economy and port-led development. Initiatives like PM Matsya Sampada Yojna, modernized boats subsidies, and Kisan Credit Cards for fishermen have contributed to the increase in fish production and exports. The prime minister emphasized that these developments in the seafood processing sector would significantly raise fishermen’s incomes and improve their lives. The infrastructure projects inaugurated in Kochi mark a significant stride towards India’s maritime aspirations and economic growth.
