Patna to get first dry dock between Kolkata and Varanasi

By Admin

01 Jul, 2025

In a significant step towards strengthening India’s inland water transport infrastructure, Patna is set to get its first dry dock facility the only one between Kolkata and Varanasi. This strategic move by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is expected to bring transformative benefits for vessel maintenance, regional trade, and tourism along National Waterways 1 and 2.

Reducing Costs and Turnaround Time

Currently, vessels operating on the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers ranging from tug boats, dredgers, and survey launches to cargo and passenger ships must be transported to Bengal for inspection and repairs. Each trip incurs a hefty cost of over ₹40 lakh. The upcoming dry dock in Patna will eliminate this financial strain by offering localized services, significantly reducing both costs and vessel turnaround times.

Local Maintenance Made Possible

Periodic fitness checks, mandated every four years, will also be conducted locally, thanks to the new facility. This will improve operational efficiency while ensuring that safety standards are met without the need for long-distance haulage.

Designed by Experts, Backed by Technology

The structural layout for the facility is being developed by the National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts (NTCPWC) at IIT Madras. According to IWAI Director Arvind Kumar, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is expected by March 2026, with construction anticipated to begin by August 2026.

Serving Over 50 Vessels on NW1 and NW2

Once operational, the dry dock will cater to more than 50 vessels that currently navigate through National Waterways 1 and 2, including routes from the Brahmaputra and Bangladesh. It will play a vital role in supporting both government and private fleets, including those operated by Bihar’s tourism department and shipping companies.

Economic Growth and Job Creation

Beyond logistical benefits, the dry dock project is expected to generate revenue and employment in the region. As vessel operators opt for local services, the influx of maintenance activities will stimulate economic activity and skill-based job opportunities in Bihar.

Driving Trade and Tourism

By enhancing vessel readiness and operational continuity, the Patna dry dock will serve as a catalyst for improved cargo and passenger transport. This in turn will support trade expansion and promote tourism along the historic and culturally rich Ganga region.