KANDLA PORT CAPACITY EXPANSION ANNOUNCED

PRELIMS BITS

Kandla Port, also known as Deendayal Port, is set for significant capacity expansion to enhance its infrastructure and operational efficiency. This development aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Make in India, make for the World,” fostering domestic manufacturing and international trade.

Key Facts About Kandla Port

• Established in 1931 with the construction of an RCC Jetty by Maharao Khengarji.
• Located on the West Coast of India in the Gulf of Kutch, Gujarat.
• One of India’s 12 major ports, serving northern states like Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
• India’s No. 1 port since 2007-08 and the largest by cargo volume.
• First major port in India to handle 100 MMT of cargo in a year (2016).

Investment Overview

The expansion involves an investment of over ₹57,000 crores:

• ₹30,000 crores for a Mega Shipbuilding Facility.
• ₹27,000 crores for a New Cargo Terminal.

Major Developments

1. Mega Shipbuilding Facility

• Focuses on building Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) with up to 3,20,000 tonnes DWT capacity.
• Produces 32 ships annually and repairs 50 vessels.
• Spanning 8,000 acres, it includes a marina, fishing harbour, townships, and a marine industrial cluster.

2. New Cargo Terminal

• Adds 135 MTPA capacity, improving dry bulk cargo handling with modern equipment and better evacuation systems.

3. Liquid Cargo Handling Improvements

• Existing jetties will handle liquid cargo, enhancing turnaround times for tankers.
• Reduced dredging needs will allow larger vessels to dock efficiently.

Broader Economic Impact

The expansion is expected to:

• Create jobs in manufacturing and ancillary industries.
• Boost India’s trade capabilities, contributing to the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision for 2047.

Future Projects

• Tuna Tekra Mega Cargo Terminal: To handle 2.19 million TEUs.
• Multi Cargo Terminal: Adds 18.33 MTPA capacity.
• Three Oil Jetties: Enhances liquid cargo handling by 34.5 MTPA.
• Ship Repair Facility: Upgrades repair capabilities.