Vadhavan Port attracting significant global interest, says Minister Sonowal

Sarbananda Sonowal

Vadhavan Port, the upcoming mega port in Maharashtra’s Palghar, is attracting significant global interest and would create 12 lakh jobs once operational, Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said on September 4.

"This green-field mega container port on India’s west coast, being developed with an estimated investment of $10 billion, is set to create over 1.2 million jobs once operational and has already attracted significant global interest," Sonowal said in New Delhi, during the curtain raiser event for the launch of ‘Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue’.

The inaugural edition of the event is scheduled to take place on November 18 and 19, 2024, in Mumbai.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 30, laid the foundation stone for the construction of Vadhavan Port project, at a budget of around Rs 76,220 crore, in Maharashtra's Palghar. The Vadhavan port, approved by the Union Cabinet on June 19, will be one of India's largest deep water ports and is part of the Centre's ambitious Sagarmala programme that seeks to improve the country's logistics with a focus on the maritime sector.

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Meanwhile, Sonowal also reflected on India’s recent maritime milestones, including the foundation laying of the Vadhavan Major Port by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Sonowal highlighted India’s leadership in green transition efforts, particularly through the Green Tug Transition Program, which will not only benefit India but also serve as a model for other countries in their climate transition.

The minister further emphasized the success of the Global Maritime India Summit in 2023, where India secured over $119 million in investment commitments.

Sonowal invited all stakeholders, including global leaders, industry experts, and policymakers, to the inaugural “Sagarmanthan” in Mumbai, urging them to work together to harness the immense potential of the oceans and contribute to an inclusive and sustainable future for all.

(With PTI inputs)