Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Announces Major Expansions at JNPT and Vadhvan Port

On August 22, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, visited Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPT) to review ongoing infrastructure and development projects. During the visit, he announced a significant expansion of the port's container handling capacity, which is set to increase from 7.4 million TEUs to 10 million TEUs by April 2025. This expansion aims to accommodate larger vessels and boost the port's throughput, further solidifying its role in international trade.

"Jawaharlal Nehru Port has become India's first 100% landlord port," Sonowal highlighted, marking a major milestone for the port. The landlord port model, where private entities lease port operations while the port maintains ownership and regulatory control, is expected to attract more private investments. This will enable JNPT to handle larger ships and enhance its operational efficiency.

In a parallel announcement, Sonowal revealed plans for the upcoming Vadhvan Port in Maharashtra's Palghar district. The greenfield deep draft mega port, designed to be an all-weather facility, will involve an investment of INR 76,200 crore. The project is projected to create approximately 10 lakh jobs, significantly boosting the local economy.

"Vadhvan Port will be a game-changer for the region," stated a senior JNPA official, emphasizing the port's potential to create employment and serve as a gateway for increased maritime trade, contributing to Maharashtra's and India's overall economic development.

Demonstrating the government's commitment to sustainability, Sonowal inaugurated three newly rejuvenated freshwater lakes at JNPT. Named after revered Maharashtra saints—Saint Dyaneshwar Maharaj, Saint Eknath Maharaj, and Saint Namdeo Maharaj—these lakes will serve as crucial reservoirs for rainwater harvesting and habitat restoration. This initiative is part of JNPT's broader efforts to become an eco-friendly port.

Additionally, the Minister launched the groundbreaking Smart SEZ project at JNPT, aimed at integrating advanced technologies such as perimeter security, smart tracking, and energy management. This project aligns with the government's vision to transform Indian ports into smart, sustainable hubs that support the country's economic ambitions.

As part of his visit, Sonowal oversaw the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening JNPT's infrastructure and sustainability efforts. The first MoU, involving JNPT, Vadhvan Port, and the Rural Electrification Corporation (REC), focuses on securing financing for various infrastructure projects. The second MoU, between JNPT and Gateway Terminals India (GTI), aims to implement shore power supply for vessels, furthering the port's green initiatives.

Moreover, the Minister launched a WhatsApp chatbot for the Vadhvan Skilling Programme, developed by the Indian Ports Association (INPAT). This tool will empower the local community by providing access to skilling programs and information about Vadhvan Port, guiding the youth of Vadhvan towards employment opportunities related to the port's future operations.
In another significant development, JNPT announced the successful expansion of its liquid cargo handling capacity with the introduction of Additional Liquid Cargo Berths (ALCB), specifically Liquid Berth-3 and Liquid Berth-4. These new berths, to be operated under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, will increase the port's total liquid cargo handling capacity from 6.5 Million Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MMTPA) to 11 MMTPA.

Sonowal also provided an update on the Sagarmala Project, a flagship initiative aimed at modernizing India's ports and coastline. According to the Minister, 230 projects have been completed under this initiative, with another 220 in various stages of implementation. The Sagarmala Project is central to the government's broader strategy to enhance maritime connectivity and drive economic growth.