Afcons has secured a contract worth Rs 53.01 billion (bn), equivalent to Rs 5,301 crore, to build the main breakwater at Vadhavan Port near Mumbai. The firm won the tender through competitive bidding and will undertake construction and related marine works. The contract award was announced on Wednesday and signals progress on the ports project. The project will be part of wider efforts to expand maritime infrastructure in the region.

The tender drew participation from several major contractors, with Adani-linked ITD Cementation among the bidders, as well as other domestic and international firms. Afcons emerged as the successful bidder after evaluation of technical and financial proposals, according to the statement accompanying the award. The company will mobilise resources and begin preparatory works in the coming weeks. Project timelines and detailed schedules were outlined in the contract documents.

The breakwater is a core element of Vadhavan Port and is intended to provide sheltered waters for berths and facilitate cargo handling at the new port complex. Construction will involve marine engineering, rock armour placement and associated shore works over multiple phases. The award reflects growing private sector engagement in port infrastructure development and the use of specialised contractors for complex maritime projects. Financing arrangements and oversight mechanisms will be governed by the terms of the contract.

Industry analysts noted that large civil engineering firms continue to compete for strategic port projects, driving tender values into the multi-billion range. Afcons will now proceed with detailed engineering, procurement and site mobilisation as set out in the contract. Authorities overseeing the port project will monitor progress and compliance with environmental and safety standards. The contract award represents a milestone for Vadhavan Port development.