India Begins Construction Of Its Largest Deep-Water Port In Maharashtra’s Palghar

On August 30, 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the Vadhvan Port in Palghar, Maharashtra.

Vadhvan Port, with an estimated investment of Rs. 76,220 crore, is set to become the country’s largest deep-water port and one of the world’s top 10 ports upon its completion.

The Vadhvan Port, located in Dahanu, about 110 kilometres from Mumbai, will be developed in two phases.

The deep-draft port is intended to handle large vessels and cargo ships, strengthening India’s trade connection with Central Asia, International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and Russia.

The port is expected to reduce congestion at Jawaharlal Nehru Port, India’s largest container-handling port.

The Vadhvan port is set to make a major contribution to Maharashtra’s economy. The government estimates that it will increase the state’s GDP by more than 1%.

The project is planned to generate over 12 lakh direct jobs and over one crore indirect jobs, increasing regional economic growth and local businesses.

The port will have nine container terminals, each 1000 meters long, and four multifunctional berths, including a coastline dock, four liquid cargo berths, a ro-ro berth, and a coast guard berth.

It will involve the reclamation of 1,448 hectares of sea area and the construction of 10.14 kilometres of offshore breakwater and cargo storage facilities.

By the end of its second phase, Vadhvan Port’s overall capacity is expected to be 298 million metric tons per year, with roughly 23.2 million TEUs for container handling.

The development will be managed by Vadhvan Port Project Ltd., a joint venture between Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority Ltd., with a 74% ownership, and the Maharashtra Maritime Board.

The project follows the landlord model, with investments from both the public and private sectors, focusing on public-private partnerships and sustainable development techniques.

Vadhvan Port has always been designed as a green port, balancing economic expansion with environmental stewardship to promote India’s blue economy.

The project will improve maritime connectivity, reduce environmental impact, and meet high ecological standards.

In addition to the Vadhvan port, PM Modi announced the Rs. 360 crore National Roll Out of Vessel Communication and Support System.

The initiative developed by ISRO will install one lakh transponders aboard mechanised and motorized fishing vessels across 13 coastal states and Union Territories. The system aims to improve communication, rescue and safety operations for fishermen.

During the inauguration ceremony, PM Modi described the Vadhvan port project as a very special project that will greatly contribute to India’s development while also reaffirming Maharashtra’s status as a powerhouse of progress.

He added that the port would be a world-class maritime gateway, increasing trade and economic growth with deeper draft capacity for ultra-large cargo ships.

The Vadhvan Port, scheduled to be operational by 2030, is an essential part of the PM Gati Shakti programme and will strengthen India’s position as a global trade hub.

Reference: ANI, NDTV

India Begins Construction Of Its Largest Deep-Water Port In Maharashtra’s Palghar appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide

Source: Maritime Shipping News