BL reported that Hindustan Shipyard Limited is constructing a 53,000 DWT vessel for the Chennai based Good Earth Maritime Limited, christened Good Pride. The vessel is ready for float out later this month, probably in the second week.

However, the shipyard is building 6 such vessels for the Chennai Company and Good Pride is the first of the series. The contract for the vessels was awarded in 2005, for a sum of USD 20.10 million. All the vessels would have to be delivered by 2011.

According to sources, it is a vessel suitable for carrying bulk cargoes such coal, ore, cement, alumina, bauxite, mineral sand, steel coils and packaged timber. It is designed to a speed of 14 knots. It has 5 cargo holds and is fitted with four deck cranes. The complement on the vessel is 28 persons. The first vessel is planned for delivery within 4 to 5 months after float out later this month. HSL has at present orders worth more than INR 1,000 crore on hand.

(Sourced from Business Line)