Shantanu Thakur inaugurates and lays foundation stone for key projects at DPA Kandla

GANDHIDHAM : In a significant boost to maritime infrastructure and seafarer welfare at Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla, Shri Shantanu Thakur, Hon’ble Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple vital developmental projects on Wednesday. The event was graced by Shri Vinodbhai Chavda, Hon’ble MP (Kutch-Morbi), Smt. Maltiben Maheshwari, Hon’ble MLA (Gandhidham), Shri Sushil Kumar Singh, IRSME, Chairman, DPA, along with senior officials of the Port, stakeholders and representatives from trade unions on 28-05-2025 here.

The projects unveiled reflect DPA’s commitment to operational excellence, multimodal logistics and creating a seafarer-centric ecosystem aligned with global standards. The key projects are as follows:

1. Foundation Stone Laying of the New Seafarer Building at Kandla (Cargo Jetty Area):
   A modern, international-standard Seafarer Centre will be constructed to provide world-class amenities for seafarers arriving at the port. The facility will include a waiting lounge, shopping area, medical room, storage space, salon, music and yoga zones, a gym, café, basketball court, swimming pool with cover, and landscaped garden – all designed to create a comfortable and rejuvenating environment for the seafaring community.
2. Foundation Stone Laying for Extension of the Railway Line towards Berths 13 to 16:
   The existing railway infrastructure will be extended by 750 meters up to Berths 13 to 16, connecting the port area with Kutch Salt Junction. This strategic rail link will enable smoother cargo evacuation and improve long-haul connectivity, especially with the upcoming Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC), ensuring faster and more efficient logistics.
3. Inauguration of Telescopic Gangway at Oil Jetty No. 7 (OJ-7):
   A new telescopic gangway has been installed to provide secure and efficient access between vessels and the jetty. This modern vessel access system adheres to OCIMF safety standards and is crucial for facilitating safer operations for crew and port personnel alike.
4. Inauguration of Fire Brigade Station Inside the Cargo Jetty Area:
   A dedicated Fire Brigade Station has been established within the port’s operational zone, complete with office space for fire and immigration staff and a 50 KL underground water storage tank. This facility will significantly enhance emergency preparedness and safety mechanisms within the port vicinity.

These projects reaffirm Deendayal Port Authority’s dedication to modernizing port infrastructure, ensuring the well-being of seafarers and enhancing operational efficiency, in line with the vision of a robust and resilient maritime sector under Viksit Bharat @2047.