NMDC Group Signs ₹21,000 Crore MoU to Transform Vadhvan Port into World-Class Maritime Hub
India’s maritime infrastructure, UAE-based NMDC Group PJSC (formerly known as National Marine Dredging Company PJSC) has signed a ₹21,000 crore Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) for the development of offshore land at Vadhvan Port, located in Maharashtra. This ambitious project will involve extensive dredging, reclamation, and shore protection to transform Vadhvan into a world-class maritime hub, poised to meet the growing demands of global trade.
The project is expected to significantly enhance India’s port capabilities and is a key part of the government’s efforts to modernise port infrastructure. According to Unmesh Sharad Wagh, IRS, Chairman of JNPA, the agreement with NMDC Group is a crucial step towards realising the vision of a state-of-the-art Vadhvan Port. “This agreement is a major step in transforming Vadhvan Port into a world-class maritime hub,” he said. “By collaborating with NMDC Group, we are bringing global expertise to one of India’s most ambitious port projects, ensuring strategic and sustainable development.” The port development project is progressing ahead of schedule, with expectations to deliver high-quality infrastructure that will cater to future trade demands. The partnership with NMDC Group PJSC, known for its excellence in marine dredging and construction, will bring cutting-edge technology and expertise to the table. The project’s goal is not only to enhance port capacity but also to improve the efficiency and environmental sustainability of port operations.
This collaboration highlights the growing trend of foreign investment and expertise being integrated into India’s infrastructure projects. The Vadhvan Port project is expected to have far-reaching economic benefits, such as creating job opportunities, boosting trade, and driving regional growth in Maharashtra. By enhancing India’s port capabilities, the project will support the country’s aim of becoming a major global trade player. The MoU between JNPA and NMDC Group PJSC marks a critical milestone in advancing India’s port infrastructure. The agreement focuses on the long-term vision for Vadhvan Port as a vital maritime hub, capable of handling increased global trade flows while maintaining high standards of sustainability and operational efficiency. This development will also contribute to strengthening India’s position as a leader in global logistics and maritime trade.
The project will proceed in phases, with dredging and reclamation taking centre stage initially. Once complete, the port will serve as a key gateway for imports and exports, facilitating smoother trade operations for India’s industries. The project also aligns with the government’s broader plans to modernise the country’s maritime infrastructure as part of its “Sagarmala” initiative, which aims to boost port-led development and improve logistics across the nation. With global trade growing at a rapid pace, the development of Vadhvan Port represents a crucial opportunity for India to expand its maritime capacity and enhance its connectivity to international markets. As this transformative project moves forward, the collaboration between JNPA and NMDC Group PJSC signals the beginning of a new era for India’s port infrastructure, one that will lay the foundation for future growth and prosperity. For the people of Maharashtra, this project offers not just economic benefits, but also the promise of better infrastructure and job creation, making it a significant development for the region.
