New Delhi: In a significant move towards environmental sustainability and infrastructural development, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated three rejuvenated freshwater lakes at Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JN Port) today. These lakes, now vital reservoirs for rainwater harvesting and habitat restoration, are named in honor of revered saints from Maharashtra: Saint Dnyaneshwar Maharaj, Saint Eknath Maharaj, and Saint Namdeo Maharaj.
Speaking on the occasion, Sonowal emphasized the importance of India’s ports in advancing the nation’s economic growth under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Viksit Bharat’ visions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He remarked, “Our ports are key assets that must power Bharat’s growth, and sustainable initiatives like these lakes will play a crucial role in that journey. These reservoirs will not only enhance the ecological balance but also further sustainability efforts in JN Port.”
The lakes—Admin Building Foothill Lake, CPP Lake, and Jashkar Lake—will serve dual purposes of rainwater harvesting and promoting local biodiversity. Additionally, Shri Sonowal performed a groundbreaking ceremony for the Smart SEZ project, which aims to integrate cutting-edge technology into the port’s operations. The project will implement features like perimeter intrusion prevention, smart tracking of vehicles, smart street lighting, and energy management systems to streamline efficiency and improve sustainability.
Strengthening Infrastructure with MoUs
During the event, two major Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed. The first MoU, between the JN Port Authority (JNPA), Rural Electrification Corporation (REC), and Vadhavan Port, aims to secure financing for critical infrastructure projects. The second MoU, signed between JNPA and Gateway Terminal India (GTI), focuses on enhancing the port’s sustainable initiatives. Shri Sonowal noted, “These partnerships will further propel infrastructure development while reinforcing our commitment to sustainability.”
Expansion of Liquid Cargo Capacity
Another key highlight was the announcement of JNPA’s successful expansion of its liquid cargo handling capacity. The introduction of Liquid Berth-3 (LB3) and Liquid Berth-4 (LB4), under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, will boost the port’s handling capacity from 6.5 Million Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MMTPA) to 11 MMTPA. This significant expansion aims to bolster India’s position in global trade while meeting the growing demand for liquid cargo operations.
Empowering Local Communities: Vadhvan Skilling Program
As part of its ongoing commitment to community development, Sonowal also launched the Vadhvan Skilling Program’s WhatsApp ChatBot. This digital tool, developed by JNPA, is designed to provide the youth of Vadhvan with access to skilling programs, job opportunities, and essential information related to JN Port. The initiative is expected to create nearly 10 lakh employment opportunities, aligning with the government’s broader vision of empowering local communities.
Boosting Economic Growth Through Auctions
In a move that underscores JNPA’s financial growth, the port recently completed an e-auction for Phase 7, covering 57 acres of land. The auction received overwhelming interest, with 21 bidders offering 95.23% higher values than the reserve price. This surge in interest will result in a 63% revenue increase for JNPA, contributing further to the port’s financial sustainability.
