Expansion of Naval Base
The infrastructure projects to be inaugurated by Singh include two major piers and seven residential towers comprising 320 houses for naval officers and defence civilian personnel. The expansion of the naval base is crucial for accommodating a growing fleet and enhancing operational capabilities.
Project Seabird
The first phase of Project Seabird, concluded in 2011, was designed to accommodate 10 ships. It included a breakwater, a pier capable of berthing 10 ships, a 10,000-ton ship lift and dry berth, a naval ship repair yard, logistics and armament storage facilities, and accommodation for 1,000 personnel.
Phase-IIA ApprovalThe Cabinet Committee on Security has approved Phase-IIA of the project, which includes berthing facilities for 32 ships and submarines, along with 23 yardcraft. The marine works in this phase will provide berthing space of more than 6 kilometers, technical facilities, electrical substations, switch gears, and support utilities.Iconic Covered Dry Berth
A centerpiece of Phase IIA is an iconic covered dry berth, standing at a height of 75 meters and spread over 33,000 square meters. This dry berth is designed to facilitate simultaneous docking and maintenance of up to four capital ships.
Townships and Naval Air Station
Phase IIA also includes the construction of four townships with residential accommodations for officers, senior and junior sailors, and defence civilian staff. Additionally, a greenfield dual-use naval air station with a 2,700-meter runway and civil enclave will provide air support to naval aircraft and facilitate commercial aviation flights.
Economic Impact and Employment Generation
Once fully operational, the naval facilities are expected to house around 50,000 individuals, providing a substantial contribution to the local economy. The establishment of the naval dockyard and the maintenance needs of ships are expected to act as catalysts for the industrial growth of the region. The naval air station is also poised to improve air connectivity to the Uttar Karnataka region and boost the tourism industry in both North Karnataka and South Goa. The base is projected to provide government employment to around 8,000 personnel.
Industry Collaboration
The execution of Project Seabird involves industry leaders such as AECOM India Ltd., Larsen & Toubro, ITD Cementation India Ltd, Nagarjuna Construction Company, Navayuga Engineering Company Ltd., and Shapoorji Pallonji Group. Their collaboration underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in enhancing India’s defence infrastructure.
