Larsen

Mumbai, Jan 27: Engineering and construction major, Larsen&Toubro (L&T) laid the keel for the first ship within 17 weeks of commencing operations at its shipbuilding yard in Hazira, near Surat in Gujarat.

A 180-tonne keel block ''the heaviest ever by an Indian shipyard'' was ceremonially placed on the erection bay at L&T Hazira Shipyard, said a L&T press release here today.

The customary keel block lowering was done by Mr Meindert Van Genderen, Director, Rolldock, Netherlands, in the presence of Mr A M Naik, Chairman&Managing Director, Mr M V Kotwal, Member of the Board, other L&T officials and business associates.

Mr Genderen, in his speech reiterated their trust and confidence in L&T's capabilities and commitment to the project.

Mr Naik said that shipbuilding represented a major thrust area for L&T, with the Hazira shipyard marking the beginning of the strategic initiative. Detailed expansion plans for the Hazira Shipyard involve expanding capacity to construct eight vessels up to 20,000 dwt(dead weight tonnage) per annum.

The company also plans to set up large shipyards of international standards in India. Keel laying 'an important milestone in shipbuilding' represents the joining of the modular components of the ship and signals the commencement of assembling the hull.

L&T had marked its entry into this field in April 2006 by securing an order from the Netherlands-based Rolldock (earlier Zadeko Ship Management) for four heavy lift semi-submersible cargo ships, technically described as RORO/LOLO Semi Submersible vessels. Till date, over 900 tonnes of steel fabrication have been completed, in a fast track schedule.

UNI