Port capacity will increase to 10,000+ MTPA in 2047 from existing around 2,600 MTPA
Deendayal Port Authority has finalised MoUs worth Rs.1.68 lakh crore for creating Hydrogen Hub venture while all ports under the Central Government and State Governments are exploring the possibility of having such green energy hubs.
This was shared by Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) Sarbananda Sonowal when he unveiled a vision for India’s maritime sector, outlining key initiatives that promise a transformative impact at the 19th Maritime States Development Council meeting in Kevadia, Gujarat, on 19 Aug 2023.
In addition, Sonowal informed that all major ports have prepared their Port Master Plans for 2047, along with similar port master plans being readied by states with same deadline.
“The country’s port capacity will increase from around 2,600 MTPA to more than 10,000 MTPA in 2047,” he said.
The two-day 19th Maritime State Development Council (MSDC) meeting, organised by MoPSW, was to enhance better coordination between major and notified ports, State Maritime Boards, State Governments and Union Territories (UTs). MSDC, an apex advisory body constituted in May 1997 to develop the Maritime Sector, aims to ensure the integrated development of major and other notified ports across the country.
Besides, the Minister underscored that the country’s maritime sector is currently poised for substantial growth, with investment opportunities identified to be more than Rs.10 lakh crore, especially through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in terminals.
“This strategic move towards privatisation is expected to enhance efficiency and facilitate the scaling of operations.”
Furthermore, there is a discernible focus on enhancing cargo movement on India’s National Waterways, which witnessed a 16% year-on-year increase in the last fiscal year, he informed stakeholders at the meeting.
Ambitious targets have been set to achieve a substantial quantum of 500 MTPA by 2047, as the Minister underlined the government’s commitment to leveraging the maritime sector as a catalyst for comprehensive national growth.
Sonowal encouraged all Governments of Coastal States and Union Territories to offer unwavering support to MoPSW, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and Ministry of Railways in expediting vital projects including the Sagarmala development programme.fiinews.com
