Vadhvan Port

Prime Minister recently attended the groundbreaking ceremony of the proposed Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra’s Palghar district, set to be India’s largest container port once ready.

About Vadhvan Port:

• The port, located near Dahanu town in Palghar district, will be one of India’s largest deep-water ports, providing direct connectivity to international shipping routes.
• It was first proposed by the Maharashtra government in 1997, but the plan was shelved in 1997-98 following stiff opposition to the project by local villagers.
• It was reintroduced in 2015, under ‘Sagarmala Programme’, which aims to push a port-led economy approach, and contribute to India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
• This deep sea port will be built on coast of the Arabian Sea, while the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) is responsible for its construction.

Significance of Vadhvan Port:

• It aims to establish a world-class maritime gateway by catering to large container vessels, offering deeper drafts, and accommodating ultra-large cargo ships.
• It is touted to be among the top 10 ports in the world when completed.
• This is due to the handling capacity of 23.2 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs), cumulative capacity of 298 MMT per annum and reduced transit times.
• Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure, the port will feature deep berths, efficient cargo handling facilities and modern port management systems.
• The Port project incorporates sustainable development practices, with a focus on minimising environmental impact and adhering to stringent ecological standards.
• Once operational, the port will enhance India’s maritime connectivity and further strengthen its position as a global trade hub.
• It is positioned as a hub port in the Arabian Sea and will forge trade links with the Far East, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and America.
• It is expected to create 12 lakh job opportunities, is scheduled to be completed by 2030.

Ref: Source

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