Palghar, September 1st: Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently laid the foundation stone for Vadhvan Port in Palghar, Maharashtra, a landmark ₹76,000 crore project set to reshape India’s maritime landscape. This deep-water port, strategically located near Dahanu town, is poised to become the largest container port in the country, offering a significant boost to India’s shipping and trade sectors.
Strategic Maritime Infrastructure
According to a statement by the Prime Minister’s Office, Vadhvan Port’s draft depth of 20 meters is designed to handle ultra-large container vessels, placing it among the deepest ports globally. This capability will allow the port to accommodate the world’s largest cargo ships and provide direct access to international shipping routes. Also, the port’s state-of-the-art infrastructure will include advanced cargo handling facilities and modern management systems, ensuring efficient operations and positioning Vadhvan Port as a key hub in global maritime trade.
Enhanced Connectivity and Economic Impact
The port’s strategic location offers direct connectivity to major international shipping routes, enhancing India’s maritime connectivity and reducing dependency on transshipment hubs in neighbouring countries. The proximity to the Western Freight Corridor and the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway further bolsters its importance, facilitating seamless cargo movement across the country.
Source: PIB
Additionally, port is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region, making Palghar a critical node in India’s industrial and trade networks.
The Prime Minister highlighted the significance of Vadhvan Port as part of a broader strategy to develop India’s maritime infrastructure. He noted that the port’s capacity to handle large-scale trade will make it an epicenter of economic activity, both regionally and nationally, positioning India as a stronger player in global trade.
Supporting Infrastructure and Enhanced Maritime Safety
In addition to the port, the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation for 218 fisheries projects worth ₹1,560 crore. These projects aim to modernize fishing harbors, landing centers, and fish markets, ensuring that the local fishing industry benefits from the port’s development. The launch of the Vessel Communication and Support System, an indigenous technology developed by ISRO, will further enhance maritime safety, providing crucial two-way communication for fishermen and supporting rescue operations.
With its advanced infrastructure, deep-water capabilities, and strategic connectivity, Vadhvan Port is set to play a crucial role in boosting the country’s trade efficiency and economic growth.
