Paradip: Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal urged the Port authorities to augment its capacity to 500 MMTPA by 2030.
During his maiden visit to the Port today, the Minister reviewed various infrastructure projects, PPA Projects, functioning of the Port, ease of business initiative, green initiative, business development activity, etc.
He also reviewed progress with officials of IDCO and IOCL in Paradip Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region (PCPIR). During the review of the progress of PCPIR, Sonowal stressed collaborative approach for faster development to bring overall development of the area.
He also had an interactive session with the stakeholders of the Port and Unions at the Biju Convention Centre which was inaugurated by him today. He also addressed the officers and employees of Paradip Port, customers and the local media.
On his arrival, Mr.Sonowal was extended a warm welcome by Paradip Port Chairman BL Haranadh and given guard of honour by the PPA CISF contingent.
On Monday, the Union Shipping Minister will inaugurate a number of projects, and lay the foundation for some.
Among others, the Minister will inaugurate the Container Scanner, which can scan up to 25 trucks per hour in scan mode. The Container Scanner complies with International Security Screening standards and reduces the need for manual inspection of containers providing high performance imaging capability with organic/inorganic material and celebration. Set up at an investment of Rs 29.98 crore, it will boost movement of container traffic in the Port.
The Minister will lay the foundation stone for the second Exit-cum-Road Flyover to be built at an investment of Rs 93 crore under the Gati-Shakti Project. The 2.4 km-long Road-cum-flyover will serve as an alternative Entry/Exit option to/from the Port, facilitating in safe and congestion-free movement of vehicles besides helping segregation of cargo traffic from passenger movement to/from Port Township.
A Sewerage Treatment Plant will be inaugurated by the Minister. The Treatment Plant will treat household sewage and utilize the treated water for sprinkling inside the Harbour area, gardening etc. The treated water will also supplement the water requirement for dust suppression in the Mechanised Coal Handling area. Rs 10.65 crore will be spent for this project.