Vadhavan Port and Varanasi Airport Expansion

In a significant move to bolster India's infrastructure, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved two major development projects: the establishment of a greenfield deep-draft major port at Vadhavan in Maharashtra and the expansion of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi. These projects aim to enhance the nation's maritime and aviation capabilities, positioning India as a key player in global logistics and transportation.

Development of Vadhavan Port

All-Weather Greenfield Deepdraft Port

The Union Cabinet has given the green light to develop a major port at Vadhavan, near Dahanu in Maharashtra. This ambitious project, spearheaded by the Vadhavan Port Project Limited (VPPL) — a special purpose vehicle (SPV) formed by the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) — is set to transform Vadhavan into a world-class maritime hub.

Project Overview

Total Project Cost: Rs. 76,220 crore
Stakeholders: JNPA (74%) and MMB (26%)
Location: Vadhavan, Palghar District, Maharashtra
Infrastructure: Core infrastructure, terminals, commercial infrastructure, and road and rail connectivity

Infrastructure Details

The port will feature nine container terminals, each 1000 meters long, four multipurpose berths, four liquid cargo berths, a Ro-Ro berth, and a Coast Guard berth. The project involves reclaiming 1,448 hectares of sea area and constructing a 10.14-kilometre offshore breakwater. The port's cumulative capacity will be 298 million metric tons (MMT) per year, including approximately 23.2 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalents) of container handling capacity.

Global Connectivity

Upon completion, Vadhavan Port will rank among the top ten ports globally. Its advanced facilities will support the EXIM trade flow through the IMEEC (India, Middle East, and Europe Economic Corridor) and INSTC (International North-South Transportation Corridor). The port will leverage public-private partnerships (PPP) and modern technologies to handle mainline megavessels on international shipping routes.

Economic Impact

Aligned with the PM Gati Shakti program, the project is expected to spur economic activity and create direct and indirect employment opportunities for approximately 12 lakh individuals, significantly benefiting the local economy.

Expansion of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport

Comprehensive Airport Development

Simultaneously, the Union Cabinet has approved the Airports Authority of India's (AAI) proposal to expand Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi. This development aims to elevate the airport's passenger handling capacity and modernise its infrastructure.

Project Highlights

Estimated Cost: Rs. 2869.65 crore
Passenger Capacity: Increase from 3.9 million passengers per year (MPPA) to 9.9 MPPA
New Terminal Building: 75,000 sq m area, capacity of 6 MPPA, designed for 5000 Peak Hour Passengers (PHP)

Infrastructure Enhancements

The expansion includes extending the runway to 4075 m x 45 m, constructing a new apron to accommodate 20 aircraft, and building a parallel taxi track. The new terminal will reflect the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi, offering passengers a unique and immersive experience.

Green Airport Initiative

Varanasi airport will be developed as a green airport, focusing on environmental sustainability. Measures include energy optimisation, waste recycling, carbon footprint reduction, solar energy utilisation, and natural daylight incorporation throughout the planning, development, and operational stages.

Conclusion

The approval of these two significant projects underscores the Union Cabinet's commitment to advancing India's infrastructure. The development of Vadhavan Port and the expansion of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport will not only enhance the country's logistical and transportation capabilities but also drive economic growth and create substantial employment opportunities. As India continues to invest in its infrastructure, these projects will play a pivotal role in positioning the nation as a global leader in maritime and aviation sectors.