Vadhavan Port Project and India’s Maritime Infrastructure

Context:

The Union Cabinet recently approved the development of the Vadhavan Port, a major greenfield deep-draft port project in Maharashtra. This ambitious project, estimated to cost ₹76,200 crore, is poised to significantly enhance India’s maritime infrastructure.

Project Details:

• Implementation: The port will be constructed by Vadhavan Port Project Limited (VPPL), a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) jointly established by the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB).
• Global Significance: The Vadhavan Port is projected to be among the world’s top 10 ports upon completion.
• Job Creation: The project is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, with estimates suggesting the creation of 1.2 million jobs.
• Port Infrastructure:
  • Nine container terminals, each with a length of 1,000 meters.
  • Four multipurpose berths, including a dedicated coastal berth.
  • Four liquid cargo berths.
  • A Ro-Ro berth for roll-on/roll-off cargo.
  • A dedicated Coast Guard berth.
• Connectivity:
  • The project incorporates the development of road links connecting the port to national highways by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways.
  • Rail connectivity to the existing railway network and the upcoming Dedicated Freight Corridor will be facilitated by the Ministry of Railways.
• Alignment with PM Gati Shakti: The Vadhavan Port project aligns with the objectives of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan for infrastructure development. The aim is to enhance economic activity, improve logistics efficiency, and generate employment opportunities.