Vadhvan Port to Generate 1.2 Million Jobs, Boost Local Economy: Union Minister Sonowal

The upcoming Vadhvan Port in Palghar district, Maharashtra, is poised to create 1.2 million jobs, significantly benefiting local youth and women, according to Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. Speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony on Friday, Sonowal highlighted the transformative impact the port will have on the region, emphasizing its potential to bring substantial economic and social benefits.

The Vadhvan Port project, an all-weather, greenfield deep draft port located 150 km from Mumbai, received approval from the Union Cabinet in June 2023. With an investment of ₹76,200 crore, the project includes the development of core infrastructure, terminals, and other commercial facilities under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The first phase is expected to be completed by 2029.

Sonowal credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for positioning India as a leading maritime nation, citing the numerous initiatives taken over the past decade. The minister stated that the port would not only generate employment but also enhance opportunities for the local fishing community and future generations.

“This port project is a significant gift from the Prime Minister to Maharashtra and the nation,” Sonowal remarked, adding that it will help realize the vision of making India self-sufficient in the next 25 years.

The Vadhvan Port, set to become one of the top 10 ports globally, will be developed by Vadhvan Port Project Limited (VPPL), a special purpose vehicle formed by Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), with a shareholding of 74% and 26% respectively.

The port will include nine container terminals, four multipurpose berths, liquid cargo berths, and various other facilities. The project will also create a cumulative capacity of 298 million metric tonnes per annum, including approximately 23.2 million TEUs of container handling capacity.

The minister expressed confidence that the port will establish Palghar district as a key global destination, further enhancing India’s maritime infrastructure and economic growth.