Cabinet Nods to Rs 76,200-Crore Major Greenfield Port in Vadhavan

The Union Cabinet, in a significant move towards enhancing India's maritime infrastructure, has sanctioned the development of a new major port at Vadhavan, Maharashtra, with an investment of Rs 76,200 crore. This initiative is set to position the port among the world's top 10, reflecting India's ambitious plans to expand its maritime capabilities.

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Constructed by Vadhavan Port Project Limited (VPPL), a special purpose vehicle (SPV) formed by the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), the project boasts a shareholding pattern of 74% and 26% respectively. The comprehensive development plan includes not just the port infrastructure but also the establishment of road and rail links to seamlessly connect with national highways and the existing rail network, including the upcoming Dedicated Rail Freight Corridor.

With an eye on creating substantial employment opportunities, I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the project is expected to generate jobs for approximately 12 lakh individuals. The total cost of the project encompasses land acquisition and the development of core and commercial infrastructure in a public-private partnership (PPP) model.

The envisioned port will feature nine container terminals, each extending 1,000 metres in length, alongside four multipurpose berths, four liquid cargo berths, a Ro-Ro berth, and a dedicated Coast Guard berth. This expansive setup aims to reclaim 1,448 hectares of sea area and includes the construction of a 10.14 km offshore breakwater.

Projected to create a cumulative capacity of 298 million metric tonnes (MMT) per annum, including around 23.2 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalents) of container handling capacity, the port is strategically positioned to enhance EXIM trade flows through key economic corridors such as the India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and the International North South Transportation Corridor (INSTC).

The establishment of world-class maritime terminal facilities underlines India's commitment to fostering public-private partnerships (PPP), incorporating modern technologies and efficiencies to accommodate mainline mega vessels. This aligns with the objectives of the PM Gati Shakti programme, aimed at bolstering economic activity and generating both direct and indirect employment opportunities, thereby contributing significantly to the local economy.

Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted the project's importance, stating, "Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is set to get its 13th major port at Vadhavan in Maharashtra." He further emphasized that this modern engineering marvel is poised to drive economic growth and elevate India's marine sector into the global top 10.

This ambitious project not only marks a significant milestone in India's maritime development but also showcases the nation's commitment to enhancing its infrastructure to support economic growth and trade. With its strategic location and advanced facilities, the Vadhavan port is set to become a pivotal gateway for India's international maritime trade.