Cemindia Projects Initiates ₹130 Crore Arbitration Against IWAI

Cemindia Projects Ltd has formally begun arbitration proceedings against the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) seeking claims amounting to ₹130 crore. The dispute pertains to the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) of a multi-modal IWT Terminal at Haldia, West Bengal.

What Just Happened

An Arbitration Tribunal was constituted on July 30, 2026, to adjudicate the claims. The tribunal comprises Retd. Justice Devi Prasad Singh as Presiding Arbitrator, Shri Sanjay Kumar as Co-Arbitrator, and Shri S. Soundararajan as Co-Arbitrator.

Why This Matters

This move signals a formal legal path to recover significant claims, including payments for certified and uncertified bills, additional works, prolongation costs, delayed payment interest, and release of retention money. The recovery of ₹130 crore hinges on the tribunal's decision.

The Backstory

Cemindia Projects, formerly ITD Cementation India Limited, was engaged in an EPC contract for the Haldia terminal with IWAI. The current arbitration arises from operational and contractual disagreements concerning this project.

What Changes Now

The company has moved from contractual disagreements to a formal arbitration process. Investors will need to track the progress and timeline of the tribunal's proceedings.

Risks to Watch

The quantum of claims is an approximation and may be revised. The final recovery is uncertain until the arbitration concludes.

Peer Comparison

While specific peer arbitration details are not provided, disputes over large infrastructure EPC contracts are not uncommon in the sector.

Context Metrics

• Claim Value: ₹130 crore (excluding interest, taxes, and costs).
• Tribunal Constitution Date: July 30, 2026.

What to Track Next

Investors should monitor updates on the arbitration timeline, any interim orders, and the final award from the tribunal.