Construction of India's largest trailing suction hopper dredger (TSHD), the DCI Dredge Godavari, is progressing steadily, with completion reaching 40% at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL). The dredger, once finalized, is set to significantly bolster the nation's dredging capacity.
The local media reports suggest that the vessel is expected to be launched on July 20, in accordance with the provisional timeline set by CSL. This marks an important milestone in the development of India's maritime infrastructure.
The keel for the dredger was laid in September 2024, a project built in collaboration with Royal IHC. The ceremonial event was attended by notable figures including Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, India's Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and H.E. Ms Marisa Gerards, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to India.
The DCI Dredge Godavari is expected to enhance India’s dredging capabilities, further supporting the growth of the country's coastal and inland shipping market. Upon completion, it will stand as the most sophisticated and technologically advanced dredger constructed in India.
This 127-meter-long dredger is being constructed under the Beagle platform of Royal IHC, promising to deliver modern efficiencies and capabilities to India's maritime sector.
_Source: Eldin Ganic, May 19, 2025, [Dredging Today](https://www.dredgingtoday.com/2025/05/19/breaking-news-40pct-of-indias-largest-dredger-completed-at-cochin-shipyard/)._