New Seafarer Centre, expanded rail lines, and enhanced safety infrastructure launched at Deendayal Port by Union Minister.
In a significant move to modernise India’s maritime infrastructure, Shantanu Thakur, Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, on May 28, 2025, inaugurated and laid the foundation for several key development projects at the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Kandla. The event, held in Gandhidham, was attended by senior port officials, trade representatives, and local dignitaries, highlighting the government’s commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and seafarer welfare.
A cornerstone of the new developments is the construction of a state-of-the-art Seafarer Centre. This facility is designed to offer world-class amenities for seafarers, including a waiting lounge, shopping area, medical facilities, a salon, dedicated zones for music and yoga, a gymnasium, a café, a basketball court, and a covered swimming pool. This initiative aims to create a seafarer-friendly environment, prioritising their well-being and comfort.
Another crucial upgrade includes the extension of the port’s railway infrastructure by 750 metres, connecting Berths 13 to 16 with Kutch Salt Junction. This strategic expansion is expected to streamline cargo movement and bolster long-haul connectivity, especially with the integration of the upcoming Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC). Additionally, a new telescopic gangway adhering to OCIMF safety standards has been installed to ensure safe and efficient access between vessels and the jetty.
To further strengthen emergency preparedness, a dedicated fire brigade station has been established within the port’s operational zone. Equipped with a 50-kilolitre underground water storage tank, this station significantly enhances the port’s capacity to respond promptly to emergencies and maintain high safety standards.
Officials at Deendayal Port Authority emphasised that these projects align with a broader vision to modernise port infrastructure, promote operational excellence, and create an inclusive, seafarer-centric environment under the Viksit Bharat initiative. These upgrades underscore the strategic importance of modern ports in facilitating economic growth and boosting export-import activities.
With these new infrastructure projects, Deendayal Port is poised to significantly enhance its competitiveness, ensuring safety, sustainability, and comfort for all stakeholders.
Source: Urban acres
