Knowledge Marine & Engineering Works Limited (KMEW) has secured a work order from Dredging Corporation of India Limited (DCI) for the chartering of a shallow draft Trailing Suction Hopper Dredger (TSHD) to carry out maintenance dredging at Pondicherry Port during 2024-25.

The order, valued at Rs 283 million (inclusive of taxes), will be executed over three months, with the option of a one-month extension. The scope of work includes dredging operations in the Mouth Portion, Entrance Channel, and Sand Trap Areas of Pondicherry Port, from existing depths to the designed level. Approximately 200,000 cubic metres of material will be dredged during the contract period.

The project is critical to ensuring safe and efficient vessel movement, enhancing port accessibility, and supporting operational continuity. KMEW plans to deploy a dredger from its existing fleet, leveraging in-house resources to ensure timely, cost-effective delivery while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and resource efficiency.

This assignment marks KMEW’s first engagement at Pondicherry Port, expanding its operational presence across India’s maritime infrastructure. The award highlights the company’s growing reputation as a trusted dredging partner, supported by more than a decade of consistent performance at key Indian ports.