DCIL MD & CEO Capt. S. Divakar addressing a media conference in Visakhapatnam on Friday.
Dredging Corporation of India Limited (DCIL), headquartered in Visakhapatnam, has recorded steady growth since its inception in 1976. From an initial turnover of about ₹150 crore to ₹200 crore, the company’s revenue has risen to ₹1,146 crore, with its current order book estimated at nearly ₹1,400 crore.Addressing a media conference on Friday to mark the golden jubilee, DCIL Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Capt S. Divakar said DCIL eyes ₹3,000 crore turnover in the next five to 10 years. He said DCIL plays a key role in maintaining navigational depths for the Indian Navy, fishing harbours and major ports along India’s 7,500 km coastline.Starting with a modest fleet, DCIL has grown into a leading dredging organisation with enhanced technical capabilities. Its hopper capacity has increased from 3,500 cubic metres to 12,000 cubic metres, while dredging depth capability has improved from 15 metres to 25 metres.DCIL is exploring diversification into emerging segments such as submarine cable trenching, offshore wind energy support and inland waterways development. With increasing investments in subsea infrastructure, the company is building specialised capabilities for offshore operations.Capt S. Divakar said that despite competition from global players, DCIL retains a strategic edge due to its experience, infrastructure and alignment with national priorities. The company has also expanded its international presence with projects in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Taiwan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.He said DCIL is well positioned to benefit from the Sagarmala Programme, which includes 384 projects worth ₹1.4 lakh crore. At present, DCIL handles nearly 80% of India’s maintenance dredging, accounting for about 110 million cubic metres out of 150 million cubic metres annually.In line with Maritime India Vision 2030, DCIL plans to induct 11 new vessels, including high-capacity hopper dredgers and specialised shallow-water units. These initiatives support Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India through collaborations with domestic shipyards. DCIL also plans to raise ₹1,000 crore through a rights issue to modernise ageing assets, improve productivity and address workforce gaps. Published - March 27, 2026 09:27 pm IST
