Knowledge Marine & Engineering Works Ltd (KMEW), a leading player in India’s marine infrastructure and dredging sector, has bagged a significant contract valued at ₹806.9 million. The contract spans 20 months and marks a strategic expansion of the company’s operations across key Indian ports. This win not only reinforces KMEW’s operational capabilities but also signals its growing dominance in the small craft and ancillary marine services segment.
Key Takeaways from the Contract Announcement
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Contract Value: ₹806.9 million
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Duration: 20 months
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Scope: Expansion to additional major ports in India
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Strategic Impact: Strengthens KMEW’s presence in the small craft and dredging business
Strategic Expansion Across Indian Ports
KMEW’s latest contract win is part of its broader strategy to deepen its presence across India’s maritime infrastructure. CEO Sujay Kewalramani emphasized that the deal reflects the company’s ongoing achievements in the small craft business and its ability to deliver diverse marine services. The contract involves deployment of specialized vessels, dredging equipment, and port ancillary crafts across multiple strategic locations.
This expansion is expected to enhance operational efficiency at several ports, aligning with the government’s push for modernization and capacity building in maritime logistics.
Operational Scope and Deliverables
The contract includes:
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Supply and operation of pilot boats, patrol vessels, and mooring crafts
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Maintenance dredging and de-siltation services
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Technical support and manning of marine infrastructure
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Repair and refit services for port crafts
KMEW’s fleet, which includes cutter suction dredgers, multi-utility workboats, and high-speed patrol vessels, will be deployed to meet the contract’s requirements. The company’s proven track record in executing similar projects for the Inland Waterways Authority of India and Mumbai Port Authority adds credibility to its ability to deliver on this new mandate.
Financial and Market Implications
The announcement triggered a positive response in the equity markets. KMEW’s shares rose by nearly 6 percent in intraday trade, reaching ₹2,294 on the BSE. This rally was further supported by the company’s recent decision to approve a 1:2 stock split, aimed at enhancing liquidity and retail participation.
While the company’s current PE ratio of over 50 suggests a premium valuation, analysts believe the robust order book and consistent contract wins justify investor optimism. The ₹806.9 million contract adds to KMEW’s growing pipeline, which already includes multi-year deals with IWAI and Mumbai Port.
Industry Context and Competitive Edge
KMEW’s success comes at a time when India’s maritime sector is undergoing rapid transformation. With increased budgetary allocations for port modernization and inland waterway development, companies like KMEW are well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
What sets KMEW apart is its integrated service model—combining dredging, vessel operations, and infrastructure maintenance. This holistic approach enables faster execution, cost efficiency, and higher client satisfaction.
Outlook and Strategic Positioning
With this new contract, KMEW is expected to:
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Strengthen its footprint in at least three additional major ports
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Enhance its revenue visibility over the next two fiscal years
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Improve asset utilization across its fleet
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Reinforce its leadership in the small craft and dredging segment
The company’s ability to secure World Bank-backed projects and maintain strong relationships with government entities further solidifies its reputation as a reliable marine engineering partner.
Source: Knowledge Marine & Engineering bags new contract, shares up – The Hindu Business Line Knowledge Marine & Engineering Works Ltd – Official Website Stock split: Knowledge Marine shares jump 6% as board okays 1:2 subdivision – Business Standard
