Newshour Press

The Mormugao Port has geared up for efficient cargo handling, and the authorities hope that the investment in infrastructure will attract some of 70,000 TEUs of container cargo that originate in Goa. It ships around 28,000 to 30,000 TEUs as of now.

One of the biggest ports in the country, the Mormugao Port in Goa has been facing its fair share of challenges. The most speculated issue in the recent times has been the lack of infrastructural upgradation which meant that the port was unable to meet the needs of the modern container vessels. However, a comprehensive change is about to take place as the Sagarmala programme’s funding will equip the port with efficient harbor shore crane.

The Mormugao Port has geared up for efficient cargo handling, and the authorities hope that the investment in infrastructure will attract some of 70,000 TEUs of container cargo that originate in Goa. It ships around 28,000 to 30,000 TEUs as of now. The performance of Mormugao has so far been tapped by players like JSW, Vedanta and Adani. Coal projects operated by the former play an integral part in the region’s economy.

The private entities have ensured that the cargo handling at Mormugao Port Trust has kept increasing, but the challenges have remained intact. However, the recent development is all but likely to put the focus on efficiency once again. Currently, MPT has 11 berths – two each owned by Vedanta and JSW. With 10 per cent stake, one birth is owned by Adani. Goa Coal projects primarily depend on Mormugao Port for loading and unloading.

Some of the stakeholders have been responsibly batting for efficiency and sustainability in their operations, within their capacity. The use of water spray systems infused with wetting agents has been a major feature of operator Adani. Coal projects handed by JSW and Vedanta are also backed by several initiatives, with the latter even going for re-greening of one of its mines in the state.

The new shore crane will only add to the advantage of Mormugao Port Trust as it readies itself to make significant contribution in the region’s economy.