Knowledge Marine & Engineering Works Limited (KMEW) has secured a significant work order from Dredging Corporation of India Limited (DCIL) for a critical rock dredging project at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA). The contract, valued at ₹58.39 crore including taxes, further strengthens KMEW’s position in India’s dredging and marine engineering space and highlights its expertise in executing complex subsea infrastructure projects.
As per the order, KMEW will undertake rock dredging operations involving the removal of pinnacles and high spots at the Coastal Berth of JNPA, followed by the discharge of dredged material at the designated DS-3 dumping ground. The entire project is to be completed within 90 days from the commencement of work, while the company has been given up to 60 days to mobilise equipment and obtain all necessary statutory approvals before starting operations.
The assignment is technically demanding and involves dredging extremely hard rock formations with compressive strengths exceeding 170 megapascals. The execution will require high-precision drilling, extensive pre-treatment and controlled underwater blasting. To deliver the project within the compressed timeline, KMEW will deploy a combination of advanced marine assets, including a dedicated drilling and blasting barge, trailing suction hopper dredgers, a backhoe dredger, self-propelled hopper barges and secured explosives storage facilities.
The scope of work includes dredging approximately 10,500 cubic metres of hard rock material from water depths of up to 16 metres under high-tide conditions. This challenging operational environment underscores the company’s ability to manage technically complex marine works under stringent schedule and safety requirements.
KMEW’s successful execution of similar rock dredging projects in the past, including works at Mangrol Fishing Harbour, has reinforced its technical credibility and operational capability. This proven track record played a key role in securing the current contract from DCIL, reflecting the confidence placed in the company’s expertise.
