Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) unveiled its latest feat in bolstering liquid cargo operations with the inauguration of Additional Liquid Cargo Berths (ALCB) – Liquid Berth-3 and Liquid Berth-4. The endeavor, completed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, marks a significant leap forward in addressing burgeoning demand and streamlining operations at JNPA.
With an initial investment of Rs 225 crore, JNPA embarked on the expansion project, recognising the imperative need for enhanced infrastructure to accommodate the growing influx of liquid cargo. Through meticulous execution under the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode, JNPA has effectively added two new berths to its portfolio, paving the way for smoother operations and optimised efficiency.
In a recent milestone, M/s JSW Infrastructure Ltd emerged as the frontrunner in the tendering process, securing the rights to operate the ALCB with a quoted royalty of Rs 252 per mt. The concession agreement, signed on 8th April 2024, solidifies the partnership between JNPA and M/s JSW Infrastructure Ltd, marking a pivotal moment in the maritime landscape.
Unmesh Sharad Wagh, IRS, Chairman, JNPA, hailed the expansion as a strategic maneuver to alleviate congestion and enhance operational prowess. “The addition of these new berths is poised to revolutionise liquid cargo handling at JNPA, eliminating vessel queuing and minimising waiting times,” remarked Chairman Wagh, underscoring the profound impact of the development on operational efficiency.
The expansion not only addresses the existing capacity constraints but also heralds a new era of customer-centric service, tailored to meet the needs of larger vessels and expanded parcel sizes. With the capability to handle two vessels simultaneously, the ALCB ensures optimised berthing options and increased throughput, translating into substantial revenue gains for JNPA.
The inauguration of Liquid Berth-3 and Liquid Berth-4 heralds a new chapter in JNPA’s journey towards excellence, reinforcing its position as a key player in the global maritime arena. As vessels dock at the new berths, the promise of streamlined operations and enhanced efficiency underscores JNPA’s unwavering commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the industry.