Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced a Rs 570 billion investment to enhance Kandla Port's capacity, aligning with India's 'Make in India, Make for the World' initiative.

The two key projects include:

A Mega Shipbuilding Facility with a Rs 300 billion investment, capable of producing 32 ships and repairing 50 annually. A New Cargo Terminal outside Kandla Creek, adding 135 MTPA capacity with a Rs 270 billion investment.

The shipbuilding facility, spread across 8,000+ acres, will develop Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) manufacturing capabilities and include townships and marine industrial clusters, creating significant employment opportunities.

The state-of-the-art cargo terminal will segregate dry and liquid cargo operations, reducing vessel waiting times and turnaround durations. The proximity to the navigation channel will also minimize dredging requirements, allowing larger vessels to dock.

Sonowal emphasized the importance of ports as economic hubs, adding, "These developments will propel India towards self-reliance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership."

Additional projects at Kandla Port include:

A mega cargo terminal at Tuna Tekra with 2.19 million TEU capacity. Three new oil jetties and Single Buoy Mooring at Vadinar to handle 24.5 MTPA liquid cargo. A ship repair facility at Vadinar to service 32 vessels annually.

These initiatives aim to position Kandla Port as a global maritime powerhouse.