- Launches two RoPax vessels for IWAI
The launching of two RoPax vessels designed and built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) for Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) was done on August 8, 2019. They were the third and fourth vessels in the series of 10 ordered by IWAI.
Cochin Shipyard is building a total of 8 RoPax vessels and 2 RoRo vessels for IWAI which nominated CSL for their construction. They will be operated at strategic locations on National Waterways 1 and 2. The vessels can accommodate around 200 passengers, will have 8 crew members, and can carry 2 trucks and 4 cars. They have all the life-saving equipment and are built as per IRS standards.
CSL presently has a robust order book in shipbuilding and ship repair, highlighted a release.
It also has ambitious plans to expand geographically and has commenced ship repair operations at Mumbai Port Trust. With a view to establish its presence across the Indian coast, CSL is set to commence ship repair operations at Kolkata and Port Blair shortly. Besides, it has formed a joint venture company in Kolkata to cater to the needs of the inland waterways vessels segment and is creating a new shipyard in Kolkata for this purpose.
In addition, CSL is currently investing a total of Rs 2,769 crore in building a new 310 m long dry dock in Kochi and a ship lift-based ship repair yard at Willingdon Island, also in Kochi, the release added.
