JNPA signs MoUs to boost green initiatives and infrastructure development as Sonowal launches sustainable projects at JN Port.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, unveiled several key sustainable initiatives at Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JN Port) in Mumbai. The event included the inauguration of three rejuvenated freshwater lakes designed for rainwater harvesting and habitat restoration, a groundbreaking ceremony for the Smart SEZ project, and the signing of crucial MoUs aimed at enhancing infrastructure and sustainability.
A major Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), Vadhavan Port, and the Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) to secure financing for infrastructure projects. Another MoU between JNPA and Gateway Terminal India (GTI) was also signed to bolster sustainable efforts by improving power supply for vessels.
Sonowal emphasised the importance of sustainable development in the port sector, stating, “Our ports are key assets that drive Bharat’s economic growth. The initiatives at JN Port align with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat, contributing to both environmental sustainability and economic progress.”
The Smart SEZ project, which aims to improve port operations with advanced infrastructure and smart technology, also saw its foundation laid by Sonowal. The project will enable features like smart water management, energy management systems, and improved network connectivity.
Additionally, the inauguration of the three key water bodies—Admin Building Foothill Lake, CPP Lake, and Jashkar Lake—will contribute to the ecological balance of the region. These lakes are named in honour of Maharashtra’s revered saints: Saint Dyaneshwar Maharaj, Saint Eknath Maharaj, and Saint Namdeo Maharaj.
Further, JNPA’s recent e-auction of 57 acres in Phase 7 saw overwhelming participation, leading to a significant increase in revenue for the port. The successful expansion of liquid cargo handling with the introduction of Liquid Berth-3 and Liquid Berth-4 under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model was also announced, increasing JNPA’s total capacity to 11 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA).
The event concluded with the launch of the Vadhvan Skilling Program’s WhatsApp ChatBot, aimed at enhancing local workforce development and providing targeted training for youth in the Vadhvan region. The Vadhvan Port project is expected to generate around 1 million job opportunities.
Sonowal’s initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to advancing India’s maritime infrastructure while promoting sustainability and socio-economic growth.
