The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority is advancing the Vadhvan Port development in Maharashtra after receiving Cabinet approval. Despite local opposition leading to legal challenges, the Supreme Court has allowed the project to proceed. Chairperson Unmesh Sharad Wagh emphasized the port’s potential to enhance India’s global trade connections and regional development.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority is collaborating with the state Maritime Board to establish a quarry spanning 100 hectares for the Vadhavan port project in Maharashtra. A government resolution permits a geo-technical survey in dense forest areas, but environmental activists warn of potential ecological damage and threats to local tribal communities.
On July 29, 2025, VPPL announced a new street infrastructure initiative at a board meeting to enhance Vadhvan Port’s growth. This includes an 8-lane NH-248S highway and a public-access two-lane service road. The project aims to improve local connectivity, support businesses, and foster comprehensive community development while adhering to global standards.
Maharashtra’s Finance Minister Ajit Pawar announced that Vadhvan port in Palghar will be operational by 2030, alongside plans for a third Mumbai airport and a bullet train station. The state budget aims for Rs 40 lakh crore in investments and 50 lakh jobs, positioning Maharashtra as a key industrial hub.
The construction of the Greenfield Vadhvan port along the Palghar coast involves reclaiming 3,500 acres from the sea using sand dredged from 50 km away. Local activists, fishing communities, and experts are concerned about negative impacts on the marine ecosystem. Critics warn of harm to sea ecosystems and call for transparent surveys before dredging.
The Supreme Court has requested an independent expert agency to assess the environmental impact of a multi-billion rupee port project in Palghar, Maharashtra. The ruling came after a plea from the National Fishworkers Forum, citing concerns about environmental and livelihood issues. The court highlighted the importance of proper planning and environmental protection.
Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority partners with NMDC Group PJSC to develop Vadhvan Port Project Ltd., aiming to boost India’s port infrastructure. The agreement signed on February 18th, 2025, signifies JNPA’s commitment to making Vadhvan Port a global hub. NMDC Group PJSC plans to invest Rs 21,000 crore in dredging and reclamation for Vadhvan Port’s development.
Shantanu Thakur, GOI Union Minister of State for PSW, visited JNPA in India to assess the Vadhvan Port project’s progress. He signed an MoU with YCMOU to offer port operation programs and discussed strategic initiatives with stakeholders to enhance maritime trade. Thakur emphasized the importance of port infrastructure in boosting economic growth and global competitiveness.
The Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University and Vadhvan Port Project Ltd have partnered to provide skill-based training for students, focusing on the operational needs of Vadhvan Port. This collaboration aims to create more job opportunities and equip students with the necessary skills for the maritime industry.
Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced that the Vadhvan port near Mumbai aims to position India among the top 10 container ports by 2034. Developed through a public-private partnership, the port will enhance cargo capacity and significantly contribute to GDP growth. Sonowal also discussed initiatives for green hydrogen hubs and domestic shipbuilding.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) announced a Rs 20,000 crore investment proposal from Terminal Investment Limited Sarl (TIL) of Switzerland for the development of Vadhvan Port in Maharashtra. With a total investment of Rs 76,200 crore, the project aims to transform Vadhvan Port into a world-class facility with cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices.
Vadhvan Port Project Ltd. (VPPL) has launched the Vadhvan Port Skilling Program to train local youth for employment in various sectors. The program, initiated on December 16, 2024, aims to provide maritime qualifications to candidates, enabling them to pursue careers as seafarers. VPPL has also signed MoUs to support dye makers and offer job readiness programs.
The board of VPPL has approved changes to the HAM to attract more bidders for the Vadhvan port project in Maharashtra. They plan to reclaim 1,200 hectares of land in two phases. The modified HAM will be submitted for approval, with funding from JNPA, Maharashtra government, REC Ltd, and potentially the World Bank and JICA.
