Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), a leading Indian rolling stock and engineering solutions provider, through its Shipbuilding and Maritime Systems (SMS) Division, has bagged its largest-ever order worth ₹467.25 crore (₹445 crore plus ₹22.25 crore GST). The order, placed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), covers the construction, trials, and delivery of two Coastal Research Vessels (CRVs) for the Geological Survey of India (GSI).
The CRVs will enhance India’s oceanographic and geological research infrastructure by enabling advanced studies on seabed geology, resource mapping, mineral exploration, environmental monitoring, and shipboard scientific analysis. Designed for extended operations, the vessels will provide Indian scientists with real-time data capabilities and support long-duration research missions in offshore environments.
TRSL has a strong track record of building specialized vessels for scientific and defense-related purposes. A notable milestone was the successful delivery of a Coastal Research Vessel to the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), which was showcased at the prestigious 12th Presidential Fleet Review—a rare honor for a non-defense ship. Building on this legacy, the SMS Division continues to reinforce TRSL’s reputation as a dependable partner in India’s shipbuilding and maritime innovation journey.
Commenting on the landmark contract, Umesh Chowdhary, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of TRSL, said “We are privileged to work with GRSE on delivering these specialized Coastal Research Vessels for the Geological Survey of India. This order highlights our strong association with GRSE, following successful projects like ICGS Kamla Devi (FPV) and MV Ma Lisha (Cargo RoPax) for Guyana. It reaffirms the trust placed in our shipbuilding capabilities and underscores our commitment to advancing India’s maritime research ecosystem. With over 35 vessels already delivered, we are proud to contribute to the government’s initiatives such as the National Shipbuilding Mission, Maritime Development Fund, and the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy, while supporting the vision of making India a global hub for shipbuilding.”
The vessels are being designed to operate within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), at depths ranging from 5 to 1000 meters, and will have a projected service life of 30 years. Fully compliant with Indian and international standards, each ship will feature eco-friendly electric propulsion, 360-degree rotatable thrusters, and DP1 dynamic positioning systems to ensure safe and precise navigation.
Onboard, the CRVs will be equipped with three state-of-the-art laboratories housing 22 types of scientific equipment for advanced data processing and sample analysis. Beyond scientific utility, the ships are being designed with ergonomics and comfort in mind, providing modern accommodation and recreational spaces for both scientists and crew—ensuring efficient, focused, and extended research missions at sea.
TRSL’s Shipbuilding and Maritime Systems (SMS) Division is gearing up for its next growth phase with the development of a modern shipyard at Falta, near Kolkata. Built with advanced automation and aligned with Industry 4.0 standards, the facility is designed to handle vessels up to 180 meters long with an annual output of 12–16 ships.
To sharpen focus, the Board of TRSL has approved the transfer of this business into a wholly owned subsidiary—Titagarh Naval Systems (subject to approvals)—with an order book exceeding ₹575 crore. With a proven record of delivering more than 35 vessels, including ships for the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, NIOT, and GRSE, the new entity will be positioned to aggressively pursue specialized shipbuilding contracts, expand partnerships, and enhance India’s standing in the global maritime sector.
