In a pivotal visit to Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Gujarat Shri TK Ramachandran, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW), undertook a comprehensive review of ongoing projects and operational efficiencies at the port. This visit highlighted the ministry's commitment to enhancing port infrastructure and community welfare at the ports.

The Secretary inspected the New Oil Jetty No. 8 at DPA. The development of Oil Jetty No. 08 at Old Kandla is a significant project aimed at increasing the port's capacity to handle POL and LPG products, with an optimal capacity of 3.50 MMTPA. The jetty, designed to accommodate vessels with a deadweight tonnage (DWT) between 80,000 and 100,000 and a draught of 13 meters alongside the berth, is being developed at a revised project cost of Rs. 225.85 Crores. The existing oil jetties at Old Kandla are nearing full utilization, making this expansion crucial. The pipeline installation for LPG, which has received the recommendation from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF) - EAC committee, is expected to be commissioned by mid-2026, although efforts are being made to expedite the process. Additionally, IOCL is planning to commence bunkering operations, handling 0.5 MMTPA of fuel, with the necessary pipeline work already underway and operations anticipated to begin by the end of August 2024.

During the visit, a joint meeting was held with stakeholders, including the Gandhidham Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), to address critical developmental issues. The GCCI delegation actively participated, presenting a comprehensive memorandum with 11 key points aimed at fostering the growth and efficiency of DPA.

To enhance the welfare and working conditions of labourers Secretary, MoPSW inaugurated a new Labour Amenity Centre within the Cargo Jetty Area at the Deendayal Port Authority. This facility, established under the CSR initiative, aims to provide essential amenities and a better working environment for the labor force engaged at the port.

Additionally, to enhance mobility and accessibility for the differently-abled and underprivileged he inaugurated five buses/vans at the Administrative Office Building Complex of Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla. These vehicles, purchased at a total cost of ₹105.14 lakhs through the CSR funds of DPA, will be utilized by various organizations dedicated to the welfare of Divyangjans and community services.

Speaking at the event, Shri T.K. Ramchandran, remarked, ‘This initiative reflects MoPSWs commitment of utilizing the CSR funds of Deendayal Port Authority to create meaningful impacts in the lives of those who need it most. Alongside our strategic infrastructure expansions, such as the development of the new oil jetty, MoPSW ensures that essential services and facilities are accessible to all, fostering both community welfare and the port's growth’.

The visit also included discussions on future initiatives aimed at boosting trade, improving logistics, and fostering sustainable development in line with the ministry's broader vision for the maritime sector. It was attended by Shri Sushil Kumar Singh, Chairman of DPA and Shri Nandeesh Shukla, Deputy Chairman of DPA, along with heads of departments of DPA and office bearers of the beneficiary organizations.

The Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, formulated by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, builds on the Maritime India Vision 2030 and aims to develop world-class ports and promote inland water transport, coastal shipping, and a sustainable maritime sector. It encompasses aspirations in Logistics, Infrastructure, and Shipping, supporting India's 'Blue Economy'. The vision, shaped through over 150 consultations with various stakeholders and the analysis of 50 international benchmarks, outlines more than 300 actionable initiatives for enhancing ports, shipping, and waterways by 2047.

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