Mumbai : Union Minister for Shipping, Road and Highways Nitin Gadkari has plan of a new Ro-Ro ( Role on Role off ) service from ‘Bhaucha Dhakka’ ( Ferry Wharf ) to Navi Mumbai, Mandwa and Alibaug, that would be started very soon.
After completion of a passenger terminal building, the Mumbai Port Trust (MbPT) will construct a bridge costing Rs 32 crore to connect the Eastern Freeway to Bhaucha Dhakka to decongest the road traffic to the passenger terminal.
On Friday, Gadkari inaugurated a Corporate Office of Indian Port Rail Corporation Ltd (IPRCL).
At the function, Gadkari applauded the performance of the port sector. “Port sector in the country has registered record growth this year. All the 15 organisations together would earn profits to the tune of Rs. 6,000 crore,” said Gadkari.
He further said that efficient port management and inland water transport play a key role in the economic development of the country. “IPRCL with an authorised capital of Rs 500 crore had been formed with an objective to ensure efficient and cost-effective freight transportation. It is expected to contribute substantially to the GDP growth and employment generation. It has already bagged projects worth Rs 8,000 crore,” he added.
“IPRCL would not only reduce the logistic cost of freight handling but also enhance port efficiency and generate new employment opportunities as water transportation is most economical,” he said. The Government of India has set up the Indian Port Rail Company to take up last mile connectivity projects for major ports. It will construct, operate and maintain rail and road infrastructure to facilitate transportation of goods from about 30 Indian Ports.
In addition, Sarkhel Kanhoji Hangre light house would also be developed to promote tourism, said Gadkari.
