FCC

Ministry of Ports partners with DP World for Gujarat terminal

2023-08-25

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MOPSW) is forging ahead with a groundbreaking project to enhance India's port infrastructure. Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), a key West Coast Major Port in Gujarat, is set to ink a concession agreement with DP World, a global logistics powerhouse headquartered in Dubai. The ceremony, graced by Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, along with H.E. Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, will take place on August 25, 2023, at Aloft Hotel Aerocity, New Delhi.

This significant venture involves the development, operation, and maintenance of a cutting-edge mega-container terminal at Tuna-Tekra, Gujarat. The project, valued at Rs 42.4364 billion, will be executed through Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode, reflecting the Indian government's dedication to bolstering economic growth.

The state-of-the-art terminal is engineered to handle over 2.19 million container units (TEUs) annually, catering to the growing trade demands of Northern, Western, and Central India. Its ability to accommodate next-generation vessels carrying more than 18,000 TEUs marks a pivotal advancement in port capabilities.

Aligned with Vision 2047, the Indian government's blueprint for port expansion and multimodal logistics infrastructure, the project is set to significantly enhance operational efficiency. The 30-year PPP agreement, established in collaboration with Hindustan Infralog Private Limited (a DP World and National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) joint venture), underscores sustainability through green port practices.

The terminal's impact is poised to transcend congestion reduction and enhanced vessel handling. It paves the way for streamlined supply chains, equipped with multimodal connectivity. As part of the National Infrastructure Pipeline, this project harmonises with the Prime Minister's Gati Shakti Master Plan and National Logistics Policy, collectively amplifying India's global trade reach.