L&T Pours ₹1,000 Crore into Katupalli Shipbuilding Expansion

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) is set to invest ₹1,000 crore to upgrade and expand its shipbuilding complex at Katupalli, near Chennai, as part of its effort to reach full production capacity at the facility.

Spread over 892.11 acres, the Katupalli complex currently operates below its approved capacity. In 2009, L&T received environmental clearance and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) approval to fabricate 50,000 tonnes per annum (TPA) at its Modular Fabrication Facility (MFF), build 25 ships, and undertake 60 ship repairs annually. However, infrastructure constraints have so far limited operations to 15 new ship constructions and 30 repairs per year.

The proposed expansion will include the construction of new fabrication units, paint shops, assembly and blasting shops, residential quarters, office buildings, warehouses, a skill development centre, and greenbelt landscaping. Development is expected to begin in October 2025 and will take approximately three years to complete.

While the expansion signals L&T's commitment to scaling up its maritime capabilities, company officials have declined to comment on the development at this stage.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.