The Rajya Sabha has confirmed the official classification of the international container port in Galathea Bay, Great Nicobar, as a major port. Developed in four phases at an estimated cost of ₹43,796 crore, the port aims to serve as a key circulation center with a capacity of 16 million TEUs. This development is part of a larger project that includes an international airport, power plant, and municipality, all valued at approximately ₹81,800 crore. Environmental concerns have been raised due to the Nicobar Islands’ status as a biodiversity hotspot.
In light of inquiries from AAM-Aadmi Party MP Sanjay Singh, Minister for Ports and Shipping Sarbananda Sonowal noted that no new heavy ports have been commissioned in the last five years. However, a deep-sea port is under development in Vadhvan, Maharashtra, with a projected capacity of 23.2 million TEUs and costs around ₹76,220 crore, expected to be completed by 2030.
Sonowal highlighted that the $20 billion investment in maritime infrastructure, including Vadhvan, aims to reduce India’s reliance on foreign shipping, lower transport costs, and enhance trade competitiveness. This port will be crucial for improving India’s role in the India-Middle East-Europe business corridor while aligning with strategic initiatives like the International North-South Transport Corridor.
Share it now
Related posts:
Visakhapatnam Port sets target of handling 100 million tonnes by 2027
Indian Coast Guard Completes First Comprehensive Maritime Training for Police Marine Force
Merchant Shipping Bill 2024 Aims to Revolutionize India’s Maritime Industry
India Introduces Sustainability Index for Ship Age Assessment and Fleet Modernization
