ED launches probe into ‘Rs 800 crore graft’ case linked to Navi Mumbai dredging project

The ED’s case is based on the predicate offence registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) around 10 days ago. The CBI lodged a case against former chief manager of the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) Sunil Kumar Madabhavi, Tata Consulting Engineers (TCE), Mumbai, as well as several private individuals and entities. The other accused named in the First Information Report (FIR) include TCE director Devdutt Bose; M/s Boskalis Smit India LLP, Mumbai; and M/s Jan De Nul Dredging India Pvt Ltd, based in Chennai.

The case, registered on June 18, 2025, stems from allegations that a criminal conspiracy was orchestrated between JNPA officials and a consortium of private firms, one based in Mumbai and the other in Chennai, to siphon off public funds under the guise of project payments, the CBI said.

Irregularities in Capital Dredging Project

According to the CBI, the alleged irregularities occurred during the execution of a Capital Dredging Project aimed at deepening the port’s navigational channel to accommodate larger vessels. During Phase-I of the project, JNPA reportedly made excessive payments totalling Rs 365.90 crore to contractors for supposed over-dredging work.

However, the payments came under scrutiny after it was revealed that during Phase-II, which coincided with the maintenance period of Phase-I, an additional Rs 438 crore was disbursed under the claim that no over-dredging had taken place in the previous phase, thereby contradicting earlier assertions.

CBI raids in Mumbai, Chennai

After lodging the FIR, the CBI teams raided the residences of former JNPA officials, offices of the private companies involved, and the premises of the consulting firm at five locations in Mumbai and Chennai.

A large cache of project-related documents, digital devices, and evidence, allegedly indicating illicit investments made by public servants linked to the scam, has been seized during the exercise.

“The seized materials are currently under examination, and further inquiries are underway to determine the full scope of financial irregularities and identify all individuals involved,” a CBI spokesperson said.

In coordination with the CBI, ED officials may soon summon the accused persons for inquiry, another source said.