KANNUR: The shipbuilding and repair center of Steel Industrials Kerala Limited (SILK) at Azhikkal, Kannur, has embarked on a significant milestone by initiating the dismantling of the decommissioned submarine INS Sindhudhvaj. This marks the first time SILK, established in 1975, has undertaken the dismantling of a Navy submarine in southern India.
After 35 years of service, INS Sindhudhvaj was decommissioned on July 22, 2022, weighing approximately 2,000 tonnes. The dismantling process, expected to span six months, commenced after overcoming initial delays due to low tides in April, successfully maneuvering the submarine into the SILK yard.
Muhammad Iqbal, chairman of SILK, accompanied by managing director T G Ullas Kumar, briefed the media on the project’s significance for the company. Sithara Traders, a Visakhapatnam-based private firm, purchased the submarine and contracted SILK for its demolition. SILK stands to earn approximately Rs 4,525 per tonne for dismantling, offsetting expenses of around Rs 2,400 per tonne, potentially yielding an estimated profit of Rs 50 lakh upon completion.
“This project has generated considerable interest and inquiries from across the country, presenting lucrative opportunities for SILK,” remarked Muhammad Iqbal. In addition to its dismantling expertise, SILK is recognized for manufacturing Urus boats and steel structures for buildings.
With recent yard upgrades completed and anticipated contracts from entities like Cochin Shipyard, Railways, and BEML, SILK expects an annual income increase of Rs 1 crore. Throughout its history, SILK has constructed approximately 65 boats and dismantled about 60 ships and boats, setting ambitious goals for future profitability and expansion.