Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), a government-owned shipbuilding company, showcases Bharat’s shipbuilding capabilities. It was established and known for building and repairing various ships. CSL has made significant progress in the maritime sector. It has played a wonderful role in shaping naval infrastructure and maritime transportation.
The electric hybrid ferry boats, each with a 100-passenger capacity, underscore CSL’s commitment to environmental responsibility. This initiative, a collaboration between CSL and Kochi Water Metro, highlights the prowess of Bharat’s shipbuilding industry in embracing excellence while ememphasisinghe importance of eco-friendly practices.
The boats are equipped with electric hybrid technology, showcasing a dedication to emissions reduction and a minimal environmental footprint. The delivery of these vessels marks a pivotal moment in the maritime sector’s transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy alternatives.
Cochin Shipyard’s recent achievements have bagged investor interest and industry recognition. During the “Antique Defence Conference” organized by Antique Institutional Equities Investment Trust of India (ITI Group), CSL showcased several accomplishments that have contributed to its increasing reputation. They are:
1. Electric Hybrid Water Metro Boat for Kochi Metro
2. Deep-Sea Tuna Long Liner, Gill Netter Fishing Vessels
3. Multiple Refit Contract with the Bharat Navy
4. Keel Laying and launches
Historical Evolution
- CSL was incorporated in 1972.
- Foundation stone for the Hull Shop was laid in 1972.
- Contracts for the first Bulk Carrier was the initial venture.
- Ship repairs commenced in 1978.
- First ship ‘Rani Padmini’ was delivered to Shipping Corporation of India in 1981.
- Then came series of large ships, including Panmax Bulk Carriers and Double Hull Crude Oil Tankers to various domestic clients.
- Commencement of the Graduate Marine Engineer’s course and CSL’s first recorded net profit in 1994-1995 are significant developments.
CSL achieved a landmark by paying dividends to the Government of Bharat during the fiscal year 2003-04.
2000-2009
– The company expanded into the commercial export market and exported ships to international clients, including the Bahamas and Saudi Arabia.
– CSL ventured into offshore vessel construction and marked its presence in the highly quality-conscious West European market.
– The partnership with Tebma Shipyards Limited boosted turnover and net profits significantly.
– CSL obtained Category I Miniratna status during this period.
2010-2015
– CSL’s forward march progressed with the signing of a contract for 20 Fast Patrol Vessels for the Bharat’s Coast Guard.
– International expansion continued with the export of 20 ships to clients in European.
– CSL set up an International Ship Repair Facility at Cochin Port Premises.
– The company reached a milestone by delivering 100 ships which marked its growing influence.
– CSL obtained licence for constructing LNG Cargo Containment System using Mark-III technology.
2016-2022
– CSL’s commitment to timely delivery was evident with the completion of 20 Fast Patrol Vessels for the Indian Coast Guard.
– The company provided its support to the fishing community by delivering 16 Tuna Long Lining and Gillnetting Fishing Vessels under the Blue Revolution Scheme.
– CSL’s international operations progressed with the export of the world’s second-largest Jacket Launch Barge to Abu Dhabi.
– CSL played significant part in coastal shipping by delivering Mini Bulk Carriers for JSW Group and Ro-Ro/RoPax vessels for National Waterways.
– ‘INS Vikrant’, an “Air Defence Ship” added a wonderful feather in CSL’s cap.
Ship building
CSL is the first greenfield and the most modern shipbuilding yard in Bharat. Its reputation in building high-quality ships is an envy of several countries. CSL enjoys proven expertise and is capable to offering an abundant range of products such as Tankers, Product Carriers, Bulk Carriers, Passenger vessels, High Bollard Pull Tugs, Passenger Vessels and Air Defence Ships.
Ship repairs
CSL started offering ship repair services in 1982 and has undertaken upgrades and repairs for all types of ships including ships for the oil exploration industry. CSL has very rich experience in ship repairs and has successfully completed more than 2500 ship repair projects so far. Clients belonged to both defence and commercial sectors. CSL has been closely associating with Bharat Navy for undertaking refits and maintenance of their fleet since the commencement of ship repairs. CSL is the only yard in the country capable of undertaking dry dock repairs of aircraft carriers owned by Bharat Navy. CSL has successfully completed multiple refits for INS “Viraat” and INS “Vikramaditya”, air craft carriers owned by our Navy. Not only repairs and refits, CSL has also undertaken upgradation of ships of oil exploration industry as well as periodical maintenance, life extension, etc.
Geographical Expansion & Pan Bharat Presence
Recently, CSL has expanded operations to the dry-docks and associated facilities across the country. CSL is the only yard in Bharat which is capable of providing ship repair services in both west and east coasts of India.
Some major repair projects
Major upgradation of Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit ‘Saar Vijay’ of ONGC. It increased the drilling capacity of the vessel from 300M to 900M.
Maintenance and repairs to the Aircraft Carriers “INS Viraat” and “INS Vikramaditya” of Bharat Navy. Repair and maintenance of tankers and bulk carriers of Shipping Corporation of Bharat.
The electric boats of Kochi Water Metro, built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), have won the prestigious Gussies Electric Boat Award. The electric ferry of the project has won the famed Gussies Electric Boat Award- 2022 in the commercial ferry category.
No doubt, CSL has turned into a global maritime force. It is mighty enough to contribute to country’s economic growth and defence capabilities.
