Mundra Port

In which year did Mundra Port berth its first ship —MT Alpha: (a) 1995 or (b) 1998?

Answer: (b) 1998

Enrich your learning:

Mundra Port:

• Mundra Port, located on the northern shores of the Gulf of Kutch near Mundra, Kutch district, Gujarat, is India’s first private port and its largest container port.
• The port was initially operated by Mundra Port and Special Economic Zone Limited (MPSEZ) owned by the Adani Group. It later expanded into Adani Ports & SEZ Limited (APSEZ) which manages several ports.
• Mundra Port began its operations in 1998 and has since made significant contributions to both the state and national exchequer. It has also generated substantial employment opportunities.
• The port boasts a capacity of 260 MMT and handles over 155 MMT, accounting for nearly 11% of India’s maritime cargo.
• One-third of India’s container traffic flows through Mundra Port, which has a dedicated freight corridor offering the unique facility of double-stack containers.

Historical Milestones:

• 1998: Mundra Port commenced its commercial operations.
• 2001: The port signed a concession agreement with the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) for its development, operation, and maintenance.
• 2002: The port signed agreements with Guru Govind Singh Refineries Ltd. and Indian Oil Corporation Limited for handling crude oil.
• 2005: Adani Port Limited and Gujarat Adani Port Limited merged.
• 2007: The port expanded its operations, adding more berths and signing service agreements with various companies.
• 2012: The port’s name was changed to “Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited” (APSEZ).

Why in News?

Mundra Port, the flagship facility of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone, celebrated its 25th anniversary.