In a significant move, the Gujarat Maritime Board has announced the decision to upgrade and modernise four ports located in the state. Going forward, the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) has invited bids for appointing an adviser to prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the overall upgradation of the four state ports — Jamnagar, Okha, Porbandar, and Bhavnagar. The announcement is a part of a broader strategic plan to upgrade and strengthen the existing maritime infrastructure in order to meet the national priorities and global standards.
As per the GMB, the objective behind the move is to enhance the cargo handling capacity and to strengthen the overall logistics network across the region. Once the bid process is completed, the selected adviser/consultant will have to submit traffic demand and prediction reports aimed at evaluating the industrial expansion in the hinterland and suggest capacity requirements. In addition to mooring analysis and navigation, technical studies will involve mathematical models of storm surges and design waves. Furthermore, the consultant will also have to prepare detailed plans for port craft and navigational aids, and will additionally be responsible to draft tender documents under engineering, procurement, and construction, public-private partnership, and hybrid annuity models.
In order to facilitate multimodal logistics, the scope also includes recommendations for hinterland connectivity, berth design, cargo handling layouts, and environmental and resilience studies. The designs must include strategies for risk mitigation and extreme weather event adaptability. The DPR assignment contract is expected to be finished within 18 months following its award.
In order to increase productivity, security, and sustainability at the four ports, the DPRs are meant to offer a roadmap for phased investments and procurement. Through transparent tender paperwork, they are expected to expedite project execution and promote industrial growth in the surrounding areas. The GMB action is in line with initiatives to strengthen the state's standing as a major marine center and to improve the resilience of the regional supply chain.
For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.
In a significant move, the Gujarat Maritime Board has announced the decision to upgrade and modernise four ports located in the state. Going forward, the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) has invited bids for appointing an adviser to prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the overall upgradation of the four state ports — Jamnagar, Okha, Porbandar, and Bhavnagar. The announcement is a part of a broader strategic plan to upgrade and strengthen the existing maritime infrastructure in order to meet the national priorities and global standards. As per the GMB, the objective behind the move is to enhance the cargo handling capacity and to strengthen the overall logistics network across the region. Once the bid process is completed, the selected adviser/consultant will have to submit traffic demand and prediction reports aimed at evaluating the industrial expansion in the hinterland and suggest capacity requirements. In addition to mooring analysis and navigation, technical studies will involve mathematical models of storm surges and design waves. Furthermore, the consultant will also have to prepare detailed plans for port craft and navigational aids, and will additionally be responsible to draft tender documents under engineering, procurement, and construction, public-private partnership, and hybrid annuity models. In order to facilitate multimodal logistics, the scope also includes recommendations for hinterland connectivity, berth design, cargo handling layouts, and environmental and resilience studies. The designs must include strategies for risk mitigation and extreme weather event adaptability. The DPR assignment contract is expected to be finished within 18 months following its award. In order to increase productivity, security, and sustainability at the four ports, the DPRs are meant to offer a roadmap for phased investments and procurement. Through transparent tender paperwork, they are expected to expedite project execution and promote industrial growth in the surrounding areas. The GMB action is in line with initiatives to strengthen the state's standing as a major marine center and to improve the resilience of the regional supply chain. For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.
The shipping ministry of Bangladesh has taken a firm stance on maritime operations by issuing a directive mandating strict compliance with both international and national regulations regarding sanctioned vessels and cargoes. This initiative, highlighted in a recent report by The Daily Star, is part of the government’s ongoing effort to safeguard national security and uphold the integrity of the country’s maritime sector. The circular, signed by Commodore Mohammad Maksud Alam, Director General of the Department of Shipping, underscores the potential risks posed by vessels engaging in trade with sanctioned nations. It emphasises that such vessels could jeopardise Bangladesh's maritime reputation and security, making adherence to these regulations critical. According to the ministry, no cargo subject to international sanctions is permitted to be loaded, unloaded, transited, or stored within Bangladesh’s jurisdiction, irrespective of its origin or destination. The ministry has made it clear that failure to comply with these regulations will incur severe penalties, which may include hefty fines, suspension of operating licenses, and possible criminal charges against offending parties. To reinforce compliance, the ministry has pledged to implement stringent monitoring and inspection protocols. It has called on all stakeholders, including shipping companies and port authorities, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to vessels or cargoes linked to sanctioned countries or entities. The ministry's emphasis on collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for maintaining the security and reputation of Bangladesh’s maritime operations, particularly in an increasingly complex global trade environment. As Bangladesh navigates these challenges, the shipping ministry’s directive serves as a reminder of the importance of regulatory compliance in sustaining the country's maritime integrity.
Regional Container Lines (RCL) has taken a significant step to enhance its India service by deploying the 7,000 TEU vessel, MV Hemma Bhum, to its RWA2 service. This vessel made its inaugural call at the PSA BMCT terminal in Nhava Sheva and the Adani Container Terminal in Mundra during the last week of September 2024, marking a milestone in RCL's operations. The RWA2 service is pivotal for the China-India trade route and is operated in collaboration with various stakeholders, with RCL serving as the lead partner. This service connects critical ports, including Shanghai, Ningbo, Shekou, Singapore, Port Klang, Nhava Sheva, and Mundra. By upsizing the RWA2 service, RCL aims to boost customer confidence while expanding its service portfolio to provide more options between China, Southeast Asia, and West India. To commemorate the MV Hemma Bhum’s maiden voyage to India, RCL hosted a trade meet in Mumbai, bringing together Beneficial Cargo Owners (BCOs), port and CFS operators, and freight forwarders. Ms. Thitinun Chinvararuk, Vice President – Business Development and Procurement at RCL, emphasised the importance of MV Hemma Bhum in RCL's maritime journey. She highlighted the company’s commitment to cooperation and shared the vision for progress, underscoring RCL's aspirations for growth in India. Mr. Mukesh Oza, Director of RCL Agencies (India), conveyed heartfelt appreciation to customers for their continued support, on behalf of Mr. Sumate Tanthuwanit, Chairman of the Executive Committee, and President Dr. Twinchok Tanthuwanit. He further outlined RCL's vision for growth and expansion in India, including developing Inland Container Depots (ICDs) and introducing additional services tailored to meet the evolving needs of trade and customers.
