DCI to build dredgers in India while partnering Colombo yard for repairs
Colombo Dockyard will still be used for repairs, due to favourable docking interval duration (Source: Colombo Dockyard)
Dredging Corporation of India (DCI) has confirmed it will build new dredgers exclusively in Indian shipyards while using Colombo Dockyard for repairs and drydocking. The company said capacity constraints at domestic yards are affecting operational availability.
Capt S. Divakar, managing director and chief executive officer, told India’s Economic Times: “Anything we do in building dredgers; it will be in Indian shipyards only. That's very clear.” He added that the agreement with Colombo Dockyard is limited to repairs.
DCI reported waiting 30 to 45 days for repair slots at Indian yards, with extended drydocking durations affecting utilisation of capital-intensive assets. “When the timeline is more, the cost naturally goes up,” Divakar said.
The company has used Colombo Dockyard since 2015, citing logistical advantages and shorter turnaround times.
India plans to build eleven dredgers valued at INR 40 billion, equivalent to approximately EUR 440 million, under national shipbuilding initiatives. DCI said improving vessel availability remains a priority as it works towards meeting the country’s dredging requirements by 2030.
