Modernisation plan for MbPT

MUMBAI, APRIL 21: An ambitious Rs 3000 crore plan is proposed to be implemented for modernising the Mumbai port over the next two decades on the lines of the recommendations of a leading Japanese consultancy firm, to equip it to meet future challenges and restore its position as the premier Gateway of India, Mumbai Port Trust (MbPT) Chairman Arun K Mago said today.

Addressing a news conference Mago said the MbPT board has accepted in principle the recommendations made by Japan International Corporation Agency in its master plan for the port and we are now in the process of appointing consultants for advising ways and means for implementation. The board proposed to implement the master plan with participation of private sector either on the basis of joint venture or build operate and transfer (BOT) basis. The plan would be referred to the government for approval once the economic feasibility report was received from the consultants and the board was satisfied that the investment would yield good return tothe port which was presently facing stiff competition ever since the satellite port — Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), located across the Mumbai harbour, became operational a decade ago, he said.