Engineering Excellence: GRSE Wins New West Bengal Ferry and Bridge Contracts

Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers secures fresh contracts from West Bengal to build hybrid ferries and modular bridges.

Expanding Green Mobility and Infrastructure Partnerships

Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd, a Navratna Defence Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Defence, has further expanded its footprint in sustainable regional infrastructure. In an official agreement finalized in Kolkata on August 29, 2026, the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. (WBTDCL) awarded GRSE new work orders for the construction of two hybrid diesel-electric ferries and two standard-width Bailey bridges.

The formal work order exchange event was attended by senior state dignitaries, including Dr. Shankar Ghosh, Minister-in-Charge for the Department of Tourism, Government of West Bengal, and Smt. Purnima Chakraborty, Minister of State for Tourism, alongside Cmde P.R. Hari, Chairman and Managing Director of GRSE. This latest collaboration builds upon the successful delivery of Dheu, West Bengal's pioneering zero-emission electric ferry, supplied by the shipyard in 2025. With these fresh contracts, GRSE is concurrently building 13 hybrid diesel-electric ferries for the state government, reinforcing a shared commitment to eco-friendly inland water transportation.

Technical Specifications of Hybrid Ferries and Bridges

The newly commissioned vessels are engineered to optimize inland water transit along regional river corridors such as the Hooghly. Each ferry will measure 24 meters in length and 8 meters in width, possessing a passenger carrying capacity of 100 persons and a draft requirement of 1 meter.

Equipped with a dual propulsion layout combining advanced lithium-ion batteries and diesel generators, the vessels can achieve speeds of up to 9 knots in hybrid mode and 7 knots under fully electric propulsion. These configurations sharply reduce operational carbon emissions and noise pollution while meeting standards set by the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). Additionally, the order for two 70R Road Class Bailey bridges highlights GRSE's broader engineering expertise, drawing on a legacy of manufacturing over 5,900 modular steel bridges for defense and civilian deployment.

Official Sources and Institutional Statements

According to official announcements released by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers and the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation, the projects are aligned with broader state objectives to modernize public transit and upgrade tourist connectivity in remote zones.

"According to officials, the fresh orders underscore the confidence reposed in GRSE's engineering excellence and execution capabilities, reinforcing the national vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat through sustainable indigenous solutions."

Practical Impact on Regional Tourism and Commuters

The introduction of low-emission vessels and robust modular bridges carries direct benefits for local commuters, tourists, and regional economies. By establishing dependable riverine transit corridors and durable land links, the initiative helps mitigate infrastructure bottlenecks caused by seasonal weather disruptions, promoting inclusive economic development across West Bengal.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Executing Agency: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd.

• Client: West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. (WBTDCL).

• New Deliverables: Two hybrid diesel-electric ferries and two 70R Road Class Bailey bridges.

• Ferry Specifications: 24-meter length, 100-passenger capacity, dual electric-diesel propulsion reaching up to 9 knots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main components of the new GRSE order from West Bengal?

The order comprises two hybrid diesel-electric ferries and two standard-width Bailey bridges.

How do the hybrid ferries operate?

The vessels utilize an advanced propulsion system combining batteries and diesel generators, allowing them to switch between fully electric (7 knots) and hybrid diesel-electric (9 knots) modes.

How many hybrid ferries is GRSE currently building for the state?

With the latest awards, GRSE is building a total of 13 hybrid diesel-electric ferries for the Government of West Bengal.

What role do the Bailey bridges play in this project?

The Bailey bridges leverage GRSE's modular steel bridge technology to enhance durable road connectivity and overcome regional transit challenges.

Source: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation (WBTDCL), Ministry of Defence, Government of India