Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a two-day tour of Andhra Pradesh and Kerala starting  today January 16. The highlight of his visit is the inauguration of significant projects collectively valued at over Rs.4,000 crore in Kochi. Among the groundbreaking initiatives are the New Dry Dock and the International Ship Repair Facility at Cochin Shipyard Limited.

During his visit to Andhra Pradesh, PM Modi will kick off the tour by visiting the Sri Sathya Sai District on Tuesday. A key highlight of the day is the inauguration of the new campus of the National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes, and Narcotics (NACIN), according to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO).

The New Dry Dock, a colossal project costing around Rs.1,800 crore, is situated within the existing premises of CSL in Kochi. This 310-meter-long dry dock boasts dimensions of 75/60 meters, a depth of 13 meters, and a draught of up to 9.5 meters, making it a standout marine infrastructure in the region.

Another pivotal project, the International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF), comes with a price tag of approximately Rs.970 crore. Equipped with a ship lift system capable of handling 6000 tons, a transfer system, six workstations, and a 1,400-meter berth accommodating seven vessels simultaneously, the ISRF is poised to modernize and expand CSL's ship repair capabilities. This move is a significant stride towards positioning Kochi as a global ship repair hub.

In addition to these maritime endeavors, the Indian Oil’s LPG Import Terminal at Puthuvypeen, Kochi, is another noteworthy project with a cost of about Rs.1,236 crores. Featuring a substantial storage capacity of 15,400 MT, this terminal aims to ensure a steady supply of LPG to households and businesses in the region, aligning with India's commitment to providing accessible and affordable energy for all.

These three projects, once commissioned, are expected to give a substantial boost to the nation's shipbuilding and repair capacities. Furthermore, they are anticipated to spur growth in energy infrastructure, including ancillary industries. With a positive impact on EXIM Trade, reduction in logistics costs, and stimulation of economic growth, these initiatives align with the goal of fostering self-reliance and creating numerous domestic and international business opportunities. PM Modi's visit is poised to mark a significant stride towards transformative development in these regions.

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