(THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM)
New Delhi: Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, will lay the foundation stone of the highly anticipated Vadhvan Port on 30th August 2024. This monumental event marks a pivotal step in realizing the vision of Amritkaal—India’s aspirational journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. The Vadhvan Port, located near Dahanu in Maharashtra, is set to become one of India’s largest deep-water ports. The project aims to establish a world-class maritime gateway that will boost the country’s trade and economic growth by catering to large container vessels, offering deeper drafts, and accommodating ultra-large cargo ships. Positioned on the western coast, Vadhvan Port will provide direct connectivity to international shipping routes, reducing transit times and costs. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure, the port will feature deep berths, efficient cargo handling facilities, and modern port management systems. The port is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, stimulate local businesses, and contribute to the overall economic development of the region, aligning with India’s broader economic goals during Amritkaal.

The Vadhvan Port project incorporates sustainable development practices, with a focus on minimizing environmental impact and adhering to stringent ecological standards. Once operational, the port will enhance India’s maritime connectivity and further strengthen its position as a global trade hub. The foundation stone laying ceremony will be attended by key dignitaries, including ministers, senior government officials, and representatives from the shipping and logistics sectors. “Vadhvan Port will play a pivotal role in bolstering India’s maritime capabilities and positioning the nation as a leading player in global trade. This project reflects commitment for developing world-class infrastructure that drives economic growth, enhances trade connectivity, and propels us towards PM Modi’s Amritkaal vision of a developed India by 2047,” said Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister, MoPSW. The Vadhvan Port project is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways and the Maharashtra government, with active participation from private sector partners. The port is expected to become operational in phases, with the first phase slated for completion by 2028.

The Prime Minister will also inaugurate 214 fisheries project aimed at bolstering the sector’s infrastructure and productivity across the nation. These initiatives, with a substantial investment of Rs.416.8 crore, encompasses the development of fishing harbors and Integrated Aquaparks, alongside the adoption of advanced technologies such as the Re-circulatory Aquaculture System (RAS) and Biofloc. These projects will be implemented across multiple states including Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, and others, providing crucial infrastructure and high-quality inputs to enhance fish production, improve post-harvest management, and create sustainable livelihoods for millions involved in the fisheries sector.

Along with above, Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for important fishery infrastructure projects with a total outlay of Rs.757.27 crore. This includes development, upgradation and modernization of fishing harbours, fish landing centres and construction of fish markets. This is expected to provide necessary facilities and hygienic conditions for post-harvest management of fish and seafood. The initiatives will be implemented across the states of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Odisha, aiming to enhance the infrastructure and facilities for the fishing industry in these regions.

Prime Minister will also Roll-Out Plan for installation of transponders on 1 lakh fishing vessels with outlay of Rs.364 crore, indigenously developed by ISRO for ensuring safety & security of fishermen at sea and enabling them to communicate during distress.

The event will be graced by the Governor of Maharashtra, C. P. Radhakrishnan. They will be joined by the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde, and the Deputy Chief Ministers of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar. Also present will be the Hon’ble Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, Union Ministers of States for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and other distinguished Ministers of Govt. of Maharashtra and local public representatives. Their presence underscores the significance of this occasion. The event underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing India’s port infrastructure as part of its Amritkaal vision, fostering economic growth, and ensuring that the nation emerges as a global leader.