New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India has upheld the decision of the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) to disqualify two major dredging firms, Dharti Dredging and Infrastructure Limited and Sahara Dredging Limited, from an offshore contract, clearing the way for further progress in key marine infrastructure projects in Gujarat.

The case pertained to dredging tenders at Okha, Old Mundra, and Navlakhi ports, located along the strategically significant Gulf of Kutch coastline. Maintaining adequate depth at these ports is essential for smooth navigation and for protecting economic as well as strategic interests.

The GMB had mandated that only bidders with prior experience in marine dredging under open sea conditions would be eligible. Experience limited to river or inland dredging was deemed insufficient due to the higher technical complexity and risks involved. During scrutiny, it was found that both firms lacked the required marine dredging experience, with most of their work confined to river-based projects. Consequently, they were disqualified.

Challenging the decision, the firms approached the Supreme Court, alleging malice and wilful misconduct by the GMB. However, representing the board, the public prosecutor defended the disqualification, arguing that eligibility norms could not be relaxed given the technical risks and safety considerations involved. He stressed that navigational safety, port efficiency, and cargo movement must not be compromised.

After hearing the matter, the court upheld the GMB’s decision.

Marine dredging involves the removal of silt, sand, and other seabed deposits that accumulate over time, reducing water depth and hindering the movement of large cargo vessels. These operations are typically carried out in open sea conditions, often marked by high tides and unpredictable environments. The dredged material is usually disposed of in deeper parts of the sea through a process known as deep-sea disposal. DeshGujarat