Vadhvan Port Project: A Landmark Development in India’s Maritime Infrastructure

The Vadhvan Port Project is set to become a game-changer in India’s maritime landscape. Located in Dahanu, Maharashtra, the port has been progressing steadily through various stages of approvals and development. Here’s a look at the journey of this ambitious project:

Key Milestones in the Vadhvan Port Project

• TEFR Prepared by AECOM (07-02-2016): The journey began with the preparation of the Techno-Economic Feasibility Report (TEFR) by AECOM.
• JV Formation (14-04-2016): A Joint Venture (JV) was formed between Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) under the Government of Maharashtra (GoM).
• Detailed Project Report (DPR) Completion (01-12-2018): The DPR for the port was completed, with a revision in September 2019, refining the focus to a container port.
• Approval from AERB (June 2019): The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) provided the necessary clearances.
• In-Principle Approval as Major Port (13-02-2020): The project received in-principle approval to be classified as a major port.
• Major Port Notification (19-02-2020): Vadhvan was officially declared a major port.
• Fresh ToR for Environmental Clearance (07-10-2020): The Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC) approved a fresh Terms of Reference (ToR) for Environmental Clearance (EC).
• DPR Update for Detailed Engineering & Investment Proposal (09-02-2023): Following cabinet approval, the DPR was updated with assistance from M/s Royal Haskoning DHV.
• MoEF Clarification for Development (26-05-2022): The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change clarified to DTEPA that the port could be developed along the Dahanu Coast.
• DTEPA Approval for Port Establishment (31-07-2023): The Dahanu Taluka Environment Protection Authority (DTEPA) granted permission for the establishment of an all-weather, deep-draft port.
• Sand Mining License Received (21-12-2023): A composite license for sand mining under the OAMDR Act 2002 was granted through an extraordinary Gazette notification by the Ministry of Mines.
• Environmental Clearance & CRZ Approval (16-02-2024): MoEF&CC granted Environmental Clearance and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) approval to the project.
• PIB Recommendation (21-02-2024): The Public Investment Board (PIB) recommended the project.
• Union Cabinet Approval (19-06-2024): The final nod from the Union Cabinet marked a major milestone in the realization of Vadhvan Port.

The Road Ahead

With all major approvals in place, the Vadhvan Port project is now set for execution. Once operational, it will significantly enhance India’s cargo handling capacity, bolster trade, and contribute to economic growth. The port is expected to serve as a crucial hub for maritime logistics, reinforcing India’s position in global trade.

Stay tuned for further updates on this transformative project!