MDL Cleared to Build Floating Dry Dock with Launching Facility at Nhava Sheva

Mumbai, August 2025 – Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has received official clearance to construct a new floating dry dock with an advanced launching facility at Nhava Sheva near Mumbai. This major project is expected to boost India’s naval and shipbuilding capabilities, while also supporting the nation’s goal of greater self-reliance in defence infrastructure.

What is a Floating Dry Dock?

A floating dry dock is a large, U-shaped floating structure that can be submerged to allow a ship to enter and then raised to lift the vessel above water. This allows engineers to carry out construction, maintenance, and repair work below the waterline. Unlike traditional land-based dry docks, it can be relocated and adapted as per operational needs, giving greater flexibility to shipbuilders and navies.

The addition of a launching facility means that new vessels can be assembled on site and then launched directly into the sea, reducing dependence on limited land slipways and traditional docks.

Key Features of the Project

• Size & Capacity: The new dry dock will be nearly 180 metres long, covering around 13,500 square metres, making it one of the largest of its kind in India.

• Prefabricated Assembly: Major blocks of the dock will be prefabricated at shipyards in Gujarat and then transported to Nhava for assembly.

• Modern Design: It will incorporate advanced safety, environmental, and digital systems for efficient operations.

• Timeline: The project is expected to be completed and fully operational by 2026.

Why is This Important?

1. Expanding Shipbuilding Capacity

The facility will allow MDL to construct and service larger warships, submarines, and commercial vessels. This will ease pressure on Mumbai’s already congested land-based dockyards and expand overall shipbuilding capacity.

2. Strategic Defence Gains

The Indian Navy and Coast Guard will directly benefit, as the new dock will make it easier to build, repair, and modernise frontline warships and submarines. It will also be critical for supporting future large-scale naval projects, including next-generation destroyers and amphibious assault ships.

3. Economic Growth and Jobs

The project is expected to generate employment, strengthen the shipbuilding supply chain, and give a boost to India’s maritime economy. It aligns with the national goal of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) by enhancing domestic capacity in naval construction.

4. Environmental Clearance

Authorities have cleared the project after a detailed assessment. The location near Elephanta Island was chosen as it provides natural protection from waves. Officials confirmed that mangroves and coastal ecology will not be significantly impacted, making the project environmentally feasible.

Long-Term Impact

This floating dry dock will mark a significant leap in India’s blue-water naval capabilities. By adding flexible and scalable infrastructure, MDL will be able to respond faster to naval requirements, reduce shipbuilding timelines, and support larger and more complex projects.

It also places India in the league of advanced maritime nations that rely on floating dock technology to maintain and expand their fleets efficiently.

The clearance for MDL’s floating dry dock and launching facility at Nhava Sheva is more than just an infrastructure upgrade. It represents a strategic investment in India’s defence preparedness, shipbuilding self-reliance, and maritime future. Once complete, it will not only strengthen the Indian Navy’s operational edge but also give a major boost to the nation’s shipbuilding industry and coastal economy.