APM Terminals and JNPA sign MoU to Invest in Vadhavan Port

apm-terminals-JNPA
Image Credits: apmterminals.com

APM Terminals has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) to collaborate on the establishment of a novel container terminal within the anticipated mega port undertaking in Vadhavan, Maharashtra. The primary objective of this MoU is to lay the foundation for mutual willingness and cooperation in facilitating the development of the forthcoming Vadhavan Port.

APM Terminals is a global port and terminal operating company, operating in managing and optimizing port facilities worldwide. With a focus on efficiency and innovation, APM Terminals contributes in the maritime supply chain. Partnering with key entities such as the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, APM Terminals contributes to the development of world-class port infrastructure. The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, an Indian maritime institution, collaborates with APM Terminals to enhance the efficiency and capacity of port operations, fostering economic growth and trade connectivity in the region.

Situated along the western coastline approximately 150 kilometers north of Mumbai, Vadhavan Port emerges as a significant and ambitious undertaking by the Government of India. With a natural draft of around 20 meters, this port is poised to become a pivotal project with seamless connectivity to the National Highway Road network and the Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) rail network, as detailed in an official statement released on Friday.

Jonathan-Goldner
Jonathan Goldner, Regional Managing Director for APM Terminals Asia Middle East (Image Credits: apmterminals.com)

The realization of this project is facilitated through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) collaboration between the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and the Maharashtra Maritime Board. This collaborative effort aims to spearhead the development and construction of the primary infrastructure necessary for the port’s operations.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) cementing this collaboration was formally signed on the sidelines of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024. The ceremony witnessed the esteemed presence of the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, and AYUSH, Sarbananda Sonowal, alongside Keith Svendsen, the Global Chief Executive Officer of APM Terminals.

Jonathan Goldner, Regional Managing Director for APM Terminals Asia Middle East, emphasized the significant strides APM Terminals has taken in recent years by making substantial investments in both existing facilities and delivering top-notch services in India.

Expressing enthusiasm about the collaboration with JNPA in exploring opportunities for the development of the Vadhavan project, Mr Goldner highlighted the strategic location of Vadhavan and APM Terminals’ expertise in building and operating world-class ports.

Mr Goldner conveyed the belief that the convergence of Vadhavan’s advantageous location and APM Terminals’ proficiency in port development presents a compelling prospect to bolster the growth of local manufacturers, exporters, importers, and the broader regional economy.

He had also underscored the commitment to creating a positive impact on the local economy by generating employment opportunities for the residents through this substantial investment. This collaborative initiative not only aims to enhance the infrastructure but also seeks to catalyze economic development, fostering a thriving ecosystem for businesses and individuals alike.

The Vadhavan port, slated as a paramount initiative by the Government, is designed to contribute for development with an estimated investment of ₹76,220 crore. This undertaking aims to create a port facility capable of managing an annual cargo throughput of 23 million TEUs or 254 million tonnes.

Distinguished by its impressive natural draft of 20 meters, the port is strategically designed to accommodate the burgeoning demand for larger container vessels, specifically those boasting a substantial capacity of 20,000 TEUs.

Upon completion, this is set to secure a position among the global maritime giants, ranking as one of the top 10 largest ports worldwide. Beyond its stature, the Vadhavan port is positioned to emerge as a pivotal green fuel hub, further contributing to sustainable and environmentally conscious practices in the maritime industry. T