Gujarat, the state with the longest coastline in India, is eyeing to boost its port infrastructure by developing 10 new major ports in the next 25 years. The Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB), the nodal agency for port development in the state, has started a survey of 10 Greenfield sites along the 1,600 km long coast to evaluate their suitability for port development.
This is the first time since 1995, when Mundra Port was established, that the state government has initiated such a move to expand its port capacity and connectivity. The 10 potential sites have been shortlisted based on preliminary criteria such as land availability, draft, hinterland connectivity, and environmental impact. The sites are Nargol, Modhva, Mithi Virdi, Positra, Dahej, Kuchdi, Sartanpar, Jakhau, New Hazira, and Chanch.
A GMB official, who wished to remain anonymous, told TOI that techno-feasibility studies have been launched to assess the viability and demand of these sites for port development. The official added that the state government has a long-term vision to set up these ports in a phased manner over the next 25 years, depending on the market conditions and the growth of the maritime sector.
The official also said that the GMB will also conduct a study to explore the possibility of expanding the existing brownfield ports in the state, which are currently handling more than 80% of the country’s maritime trade. The state has 48 minor and intermediate ports, and one major port at Kandla.
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