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JSW Infra Secures ₹4,259 Cr Murbe Port Project in Maharashtra
JSW Infrastructure Limited (JSW Infra), a leading private port operator in India, has been awarded the contract to develop, operate, manage, and maintain a new all-weather multipurpose port in Murbe village, Palghar district, Maharashtra. The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) issued a Letter of Intent (LoI) to the company, according to a filing made by JSW Infra to the stock exchange on Wednesday. This greenfield project, estimated to cost ₹4,259 crore, is expected to generate 1,500 direct employment opportunities in the region.
JSW Infra’s Expansion Plan for Murbe Port
The proposed port development aligns with JSW Infra’s growth strategy, which aims to increase its operational capacity from 170 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 400 MTPA by the financial year 2030. The LoI provided by MMB is valid for 24 months, during which JSW Infra is required to meet the specified terms and conditions. Upon successful fulfillment, a 70-year concession agreement will be signed, allowing JSW Infra to operate the port under the public-private partnership (PPP) framework.
The project will follow the Design, Build, Own, Operate, and Transfer (DBOOT) model, and will cater to captive, bulk, and dry bulk cargo once completed. This strategic move is expected to strengthen JSW Infra’s position as a key player in India’s port infrastructure sector.
Strategic Location and Connectivity of Murbe Port
Murbe port’s location offers significant logistical advantages, being well-connected to major transportation networks such as National Highway 8, Boisar Road, and key rail corridors like the Delhi-Mumbai trunk rail route and the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor. This connectivity is expected to facilitate seamless transportation and cargo handling, enhancing the efficiency of the new port.
The Maharashtra government approved JSW Infra as the developer for the project in a cabinet meeting held on September 30. Following the approval, a detailed project report (DPR) will be prepared in consultation with the Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS) and the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) to address technical aspects and rehabilitation plans for the local fishing community.
Long-Term Impact and Economic Benefits
The Murbe port project is expected to drive economic growth in Maharashtra’s coastal regions, create job opportunities, and promote industrial development. Royalty payments for the project will be based on a per-metric-tonne basis, with escalations set for every five-year block period.
JSW Infra’s investment in the Murbe port project marks a significant milestone in its expansion plans, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing India’s maritime infrastructure.
