Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 4, Four leading contracting teams have submitted initial bids to construct a 10.14 km-long breakwater for India’s new megaport at Vadhvan, located on the west coast of Maharashtra, about 150 km north of Mumbai.

The project is part of India’s broader initiative to expand its port infrastructure and is valued at approximately $7.4 billion (655 billion rupees). It will be developed and operated as a public-private partnership.

Vadhvan Port will be built on reclaimed land, with the breakwater providing protection against the sea. The location benefits from a natural 20-meter deep draft, allowing the port to accommodate large vessels and support efficient cargo handling.

The breakwater, a critical element of the project, is designed to shield the port from ocean waves and ensure safe operations. The construction contract is currently in the bidding phase, with the four leading teams competing to secure the assignment.

Once completed, Vadhvan Port is expected to enhance India’s maritime capacity, facilitate larger shipping volumes, and support the country’s trade and logistics ambitions. The port will serve as a hub for container, bulk, and multipurpose cargo, boosting connectivity along the west coast and easing pressure on existing ports like Mumbai and Jawaharlal Nehru Port.

Officials involved in the project have emphasized that the port’s development aligns with India’s long-term economic and trade objectives, including strengthening export-import flows and attracting investment in related industries.

The public-private partnership model is intended to bring together government oversight and private sector efficiency, ensuring timely delivery and high-quality construction. The reclaimed land and deep-draft design will allow Vadhvan to handle the largest cargo vessels, positioning it as a strategic node in India’s shipping network.

Construction of the breakwater will be followed by the phased development of port terminals, logistics facilities, and supporting infrastructure, including access roads, rail links, and utility services. The port is projected to generate significant employment opportunities, both during construction and in operational phases.

With India’s trade volumes growing, Vadhvan Port is expected to increase cargo throughput capacity, reduce congestion at existing ports, and strengthen the country’s position in global maritime trade.

The project represents a major milestone in India’s port modernization efforts, combining advanced engineering, large-scale investment, and strategic location advantages to create a modern, resilient, and efficient port on the west coast.

In summary, Vadhvan Port’s breakwater and subsequent development aim to boost India’s shipping infrastructure, enhance regional trade capacity, and contribute to long-term economic growth along the western seaboard.