Mumbai Port Authority charts ambitious 2047 master plan to boost cargo capacity, modernise infrastructure

By Admin

09 Dec, 2025

The Mumbai Port Authority has taken a major leap toward reshaping India’s maritime future with the unveiling of its Integrated Port Master Plan 2047 a long-term development blueprint set to transform one of the country’s oldest ports into a modern, high-capacity, and innovation-driven maritime hub. The plan aims to boost cargo handling efficiency, modernise ageing infrastructure, enhance connectivity, and unlock under-utilised land to reinforce Mumbai Port’s role as a strategic national gateway.

A Vision to Handle Over 100 MTPA

According to Chairman M. Angamuthu, the master plan positions the 150-year-old port to handle over 100 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of cargo through strategic and phased development. The focus areas include liquid bulk, chemicals, break-bulk, steel, and multi-cargo operations, integrated with new urban development initiatives and advanced maritime innovation zones.

A CRISIL traffic assessment forecasts total port throughput to rise from the current 68.3 MTPA to 106.2 MTPA by 2053. Of this, liquid bulk cargo is expected to grow significantly to 56.5 MTPA, making it a key driver of the port’s expansion.

Expanding Petrochemical Capacity at Jawahar Dweep & Pir Pau

One of the most critical thrusts of the plan lies in the expansion of Jawahar Dweep (JD). The port is developing 13 hectares of reclaimed land in partnership with HPCL and BPCL, creating 4.2 lakh tonnes of crude and product storage under a massive ₹2,700-crore investment.

The upcoming Sixth Oil Berth (JD-6), built at a cost of ₹400 crore, will handle Suezmax vessels and add 5–6 MTPA of crude-handling capacity significantly strengthening India’s petroleum logistics ecosystem.

At Pir Pau, a new Fourth Chemical Berth will be constructed, adding another 2–3 MTPA of chemical cargo capacity. Supporting this is additional reclaimed land with 3 lakh kilolitres of liquid storage. A 5 km offshore trestle connecting Jawahar Dweep and Pir Pau will improve POL (petroleum, oil, lubricants) and chemical evacuation efficiency, reducing turnaround time and strengthening operational safety.

Harbour Deepening, Dredging & New Anchorages

To meet rising demand from key hinterland industries especially steel facilities like JSW Dolvi the port will upgrade harbour capabilities. Anchorages will be deepened to 13.5 metres, major approach channels will be dredged, and two new deep-water (15 m draft) anchorages will be ready by 2027. These enhancements aim to reduce congestion, accommodate larger vessels, and ensure seamless maritime movement.

Strengthening Multi-Cargo Operations

On the multi-cargo front, the port is planning a new 4 MTPA offshore terminal near the Offshore Container Terminal. Indira Dock one of the most prominent facilities will see consolidation under an O&M operator and advanced mechanisation to add nearly 6 MTPA of improved capacity by 2026.

Connectivity upgrades will complement these capacity expansions. These include a redesigned Orange Gate for better traffic flow and the revival of the Kurla–Wadala Dedicated Freight Line, which will significantly improve rail evacuation and reduce transit delays.

Urban Transformation: Cruise Tourism, Marina, Cultural Hubs & District Blue

Beyond cargo operations, the Mumbai Port Master Plan 2047 focuses on transforming the city’s eastern waterfront. The vision includes:

• Expansion of cruise tourism facilities
  
  

• Development of Mumbai Marina
  
  

• Establishment of an International Sailing Centre
  
  

• Creation of cultural destinations like the Wadala Art District and Event Bay
  
  

A flagship 60-hectare maritime business district District Blue will rise at Cotton Green, becoming a central hub for India’s emerging blue economy.

Digitalisation, Green Energy & Heritage Preservation

Modernisation is a core pillar of the 2047 roadmap. The plan proposes:

• Port-wide digitalisation
  
  

• 5G-enabled smart port operations
  
  

• Digital twin technology for port assets
  
  

• Renewable energy integration
  
  

• Shore power systems & green tugs
  
  

Alongside these technological advancements, heritage conservation remains a priority. The port will restore and preserve iconic sites such as Ballard Estate, Kanhoji Angre Island, the Maritime Museum, and the historic Mumbai Port Archives.

A Future-Ready Port for India’s Centenary

Chairman Angamuthu emphasised that the phased master plan “offers a resilient and future-ready pathway for Mumbai Port to remain a key national gateway well into India’s centenary of independence.”

With capacity expansion, infrastructural modernisation, digital innovation, and holistic urban transformation, the Mumbai Port Authority’s 2047 Master Plan stands as one of the most ambitious maritime development roadmaps in India’s history poised to redefine the economic and logistical landscape for decades to come.