Kochi Corporation’s third roll-on roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessel, currently under construction by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), is expected to be launched in December to coincide with the upcoming edition of the Kochi Biennale, Mayor M. Anilkumar said. In this regard, the Mayor and KJ Maxy, MLA, raised a request for an assessment of the progress of the Ro-Ro construction at the review meeting on Friday (October 24).
Although the agreement stipulated an 18-month deadline for construction completion, CSL Chairman and Managing Director Madhu S. Nair issued strict instructions to speed up the process and ensure timely delivery of the vessel.
As part of the review meeting, a delegation led by Mr. Anilkumar and Mr. Maxy visited the shed of Kerala Shipping and Inland Navigation Corporation at Thoppumpady where the vessel is being built. The meeting concluded with a decision to start the third Ro-Ro by the end of December after the local body elections.
While CSL went ahead with commissioning the Ro-Ro in January, both Mr Anilkumar and Mr Maxy demanded that the launch be moved to December to coincide with the start of the Biennale. “The CSL authorities have responded positively and we hope to start the third Ro-Ro shortly after the local elections in December,” said Mr. Anilkumar.
He added that regular discussions and review meetings are held to ensure timely completion of the project. Thoppumpady Councilor Sheeba Durom, ČSL Operations Director S. Harikrishnan, Finance Director VJ Jose and Executive Director VP Shiras were present.
Published – 24 October 2025 20:40 IST
