India’s second-largest private port operator, JSW Infra, sets sights on a substantial expansion with an investment of ₹6,000-7,000 crore, aiming to increase cargo handling capacity by over 40 percent in the next 3-4 years.
JSW Infra, India’s second-largest private port operator, is gearing up for a significant expansion, earmarking an investment of ₹6,000-7,000 crore to amplify its cargo handling capacity by more than 40 percent—approximately 250 million tonnes—over the next 3-4 years. The ambitious plan includes investments in two greenfield port projects in Karnataka and Odisha, along with the expansion of a recently acquired cargo terminal in Maharashtra.
JSW secured the bid for a greenfield port project in Keni, Karnataka, valued at an estimated ₹4,119 crore. Having inked the concession agreement with the Karnataka Maritime Board in November 2023, the company awaits final approvals. The project, boasting an initial cargo handling capacity of 30 MTPA (million tonnes per annum), is poised to commence operations promptly upon receiving all necessary clearances.
In Odisha, JSW plans to develop a greenfield port to support the establishment of a steel plant, with an estimated investment of ₹3,000 crore. The project’s Phase I will have a cargo handling capacity of 30 MT and is expected to be completed within 3-4 years post-commencement. Having secured all required clearances, a concession agreement is anticipated to be signed within the next four weeks, paving the way for construction commencement.
JSW Infra strategically acquired the shareholding of PNP Maritime Services (PNP Port), an operating port in Raigad, Maharashtra, at a cost of ₹270 crore. With a current handling capacity of 5 MTPA, the port has the potential to expand up to 19 MTPA. JSW aims to augment the port’s handling capacity by 14-15 percent annually, targeting 10 million tonnes within the next 3-4 years.
These ambitious projects will be financed with 30 percent equity and the remaining through debt, with construction slated to commence within the calendar year.
