In a groundbreaking move aimed at transforming India’s port landscape, DP World has entered into a strategic agreement with the Deendayal Port Authority. This landmark collaboration aims to develop, manage, and maintain a state-of-the-art container terminal with an annual capacity of 2.19 million TEUs along India’s western coast.
Heralding a Partnership for Progress
The Deendayal Port Authority, recognizing the potential of this innovative project, granted the concession to develop the mega-container terminal to Hindustan Infralog Private Limited. This venture is a joint effort between DP World and the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund—an investment platform fostered by the Government of India. Operating under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) arrangement, the concession spans a 30-year period, extendable by an additional 20 years.
A Visionary Investment in Infrastructure
The undertaking entails the construction of a mega-container terminal at Tuna-Tekra, strategically located adjacent to the existing Deendayal Port. With an investment outlay of approximately $510 million, this endeavor materializes through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) framework. The terminal’s completion, anticipated by 2027, promises cutting-edge facilities, including a 1,100-meter berth tailored to accommodate next-generation vessels boasting capacities exceeding 18,000 TEUs.
Driving Connectivity and Expansion
Under the terms of the concession agreement, the berth’s extension potential reaches an impressive 1,375 meters. This terminal will intricately connect to the hinterland through an expansive network of roads, highways, railways, and Dedicated Freight Corridors. This strategic connectivity facilitates the fulfillment of escalating logistics demands from Northern, Western, and Central India—creating a seamless bridge between regional businesses and global markets.
DP World’s Expanding Presence in India
DP World’s robust presence in India is set to gain further momentum with the addition of the Tuna-Tekra terminal. Currently managing five container terminals across the nation—two in Mumbai, and one each in Mundra, Cochin, and Chennai—DP World boasts a combined capacity of approximately 6 million TEUs. The Tuna-Tekra project will propel this capacity to a commendable 8.19 million TEUs, solidifying DP World’s pivotal role in India’s port infrastructure landscape.
Aligned with National Initiatives
Integrating seamlessly with India’s National Infrastructure Pipeline, this project also complements key governmental initiatives like the PM Gati Shakti Master Plan and the National Logistics Policy. The container terminal sets new benchmarks in environmental consciousness, adhering to green port guidelines and promoting sustainable port operations.
A Vision of Progress and Prosperity
Sarbananda Sonowal, India’s Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, hailed the agreement as a monumental achievement. This venture aligns perfectly with the government’s vision to establish India as a hub for exports, driving direct and indirect employment opportunities across various sectors.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, expressed profound enthusiasm for this transformative partnership. He emphasized that the collaboration will strengthen India’s supply chain and amplify trade opportunities, contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
In the nexus of DP World’s global expertise and India’s dynamic growth trajectory, the signing of this concession agreement marks a momentous stride towards creating a more efficient, connected, and prosperous future for India’s maritime trade and industry.
