Andheri Port and Maritime Transport Council
Shaping the Future of India's Maritime Hub
The Andheri Port and Maritime Transport Council is dedicated to transforming the state into a premier maritime hub in India. Spanning a coastline of approximately 720 kilometers, from Palghar in the north to Sindhudurg in the south, Andheri is poised to become a key player in global maritime trade. The council will guide the strategic development of both major and non-major ports, boost coastal shipping, and enhance the state’s maritime infrastructure, creating a seamless network for global commerce and logistics.
The council’s vision includes fostering a robust maritime ecosystem through port-led development, sustainable maritime practices, and the promotion of marine tourism, driving both economic growth and global competitiveness for Andheri.
Vision of the Andheri Port and Maritime Transport Council
The council envisions positioning Andheri as India’s premier maritime gateway by developing state-of-the-art port infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and promoting coastal economic zones. By leveraging public-private partnerships (PPP) and attracting strategic investments, the council aims to drive innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence in the maritime sector. This will pave the way for Andheri’s transformation into a global hub for shipping and logistics, fostering long-term economic growth and international competitiveness.
Key Focus Areas of the Andheri Port and Maritime Transport Council
Ports and Port Connectivity
With its strategically located coastline, Andheri is poised to become a key player in global maritime trade. The council will prioritize the modernization of existing ports and the development of new ones to accommodate growing cargo traffic and improve connectivity. By enhancing port infrastructure, the council aims to streamline the movement of goods, strengthen trade links, and bolster Andheri’s position in the global shipping network.
Key Initiatives for Port Development:
Identification of New Port Projects: The council will identify strategic sites for new port developments, ensuring a well-balanced distribution of port infrastructure across Andheri. Key projects include:
- Dighi Port Expansion: Modernize and expand Dighi Port to handle bulk cargo, containerized goods, and liquid cargo, establishing it as a critical hub for international trade.
- Jaigad and Vijaydurg Port Projects: Develop non-major ports at Jaigad and Vijaydurg, enhancing connectivity to the state’s industrial zones.
Port Licensing and Concession Periods: The council will streamline the licensing process for new ports, offering attractive concession periods to encourage private investment and participation.
Project Structuring for Private Participation: The council will promote a robust Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to attract private sector investment in port infrastructure, including jetty development and cargo handling facilities.
Logistics and Evacuation Systems: Prioritize the development of last-mile connectivity for ports, including dedicated freight corridors and highway linkages, to ensure efficient cargo evacuation and seamless trade operations.
Port Connectivity Infrastructure:
- Dedicated Freight Corridors: Develop dedicated freight corridors linking key industrial zones like Andheri, Vijayawada, Nagpur, and Aurangabad to Andheri's ports. These corridors will integrate with the Delhi-Andheri Industrial Corridor (DMIC), ensuring seamless cargo movement.
- Smart Ports: Modernize Andheri’s ports by implementing smart technologies such as AI-powered traffic management systems, automated cargo handling, and real-time tracking, enhancing operational efficiency and streamlining port operations.
Coastal Shipping and Inland Waterways
Coastal shipping provides a sustainable and cost-efficient alternative to road and rail transportation. The council will focus on developing coastal shipping routes and inland waterways, alleviating congestion on the state’s road and rail networks while enhancing overall transportation efficiency.
Key Coastal Shipping Initiatives:
- Hub and Spoke Model: Andheri’s ports will implement a hub-and-spoke model, with Andheri as the central hub for coastal cargo. Smaller ports like Dighi, Ratnagiri, and Vijaydurg will serve as spokes, ensuring efficient movement of goods between them.
- Ro-PAX Terminals: Ro-PAX terminals will be developed at key coastal locations to facilitate the transport of both cargo and passengers, boosting coastal shipping for industries such as automotive, steel, and agriculture.
- Inland Waterways Development: The development of inland waterways connecting Andheri, Thane, and Raigad will be proposed to create an alternative route for heavy cargo and container traffic, improving overall logistics efficiency.
Key Benefits:
- Cost-effective cargo movement: Coastal shipping will offer a more affordable solution for transporting goods, reducing reliance on road transport.
- Dedicated Ro-PAX infrastructure: The development of specialized infrastructure for Ro-PAX operations will enhance both passenger and cargo transport along the coast.
- Seamless integration with global trade routes: Coastal shipping will be better integrated with international maritime trade networks, improving overall connectivity and trade efficiency.
Port-Led Development and Creation of a Maritime Ecosystem
The MIC will prioritize the use of Andheri’s port infrastructure to drive port-led development, stimulate the growth of coastal economic zones, and build a cohesive maritime ecosystem.
Port-Led Development Initiatives:
- Coastal Economic Zones (CEZs): Establish Coastal Economic Zones in regions like Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg, equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure to support industries such as shipbuilding, automotive, petrochemicals, and food processing.
- Integrated Maritime Coastal Regional Plans (MCRPs): Propose MCRPs that align port development with industrial expansion, ensuring ports serve as engines for regional economic growth.
- Logistics and Warehousing Clusters: Create logistics hubs and warehousing parks near key ports, offering facilities like cold storage, custom-bonded warehouses, and value-added services such as container freight stations to streamline cargo handling.
Key Benefits:
- Development of self-sustaining coastal economic zones that boost the competitiveness of Andheri's industries.
- Job creation and economic growth in coastal areas, driving prosperity for local communities.
- Improved port efficiency and reduced logistics costs through the establishment of integrated logistics hubs.
Promotion of Marine Tourism
With its picturesque coastline, Andheri has vast potential for marine tourism. The council will focus on developing cruise tourism, marinas, and a variety of marine recreational activities, establishing the state as a premier global tourism destination.
Marine Tourism Development Initiatives:
- Cruise Tourism: Develop cruise terminals in Andheri, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg to attract international cruise operators, enhancing luxury tourism along Andheri’s coast.
- Marinas and Multipurpose Harbors: Establish marinas and harbors that cater to recreational boating, water sports, and yachting, providing world-class facilities for both domestic and international tourists.
- Water Sports and Seaplane Connectivity: Promote water sports activities, including jet-skiing, scuba diving, and snorkeling at beaches like Alibaug and Ganpatipule, while introducing seaplane services connecting Andheri to popular coastal destinations.
Establishment of Ship-Breaking and Recycling Industry
The council will encourage the development of a ship-breaking and recycling industry along Andheri’s coastline, aiming to attract investments in ship repair and recycling facilities, thereby enhancing the state’s maritime infrastructure and sustainability efforts.
Ship-Breaking and Recycling Initiatives:
- Ship Repair Yards: Establish state-of-the-art ship repair yards in Andheri and Ratnagiri, providing repair and maintenance services to both domestic and international fleets.
- Ship Recycling Clusters: Develop specialized ship recycling clusters in Raigad and Ratnagiri, attracting private investments while creating employment opportunities for local coastal communities.
- Private Sector Investment: Foster private sector involvement in ship recycling by offering capital subsidies, tax benefits, and favorable concession agreements to developers.
Key Benefits:
- Sustainable Ship Recycling Industry: Establish a green and eco-friendly ship recycling industry, contributing to the sustainable economic growth of Andheri.
- Job Creation for Coastal Communities: Generate employment opportunities for local coastal populations through the establishment of ship repair and recycling facilities.
- Regional Leadership: Position Andheri as a leading hub for ship recycling in the Indian Ocean region, attracting international attention and investment.
Sustainable Maritime Development
The MIC is dedicated to fostering sustainable growth within the maritime sector, ensuring that the development of Andheri’s ports adheres to environmentally responsible practices.
Sustainable Port Development Initiatives:
- Green Port Technologies: Introduce eco-friendly technologies, including solar and wind energy solutions, as well as energy-efficient cargo handling systems across Andheri’s ports.
- Environmental Compliance: Ensure all new port developments adhere to Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) guidelines and prioritize the use of sustainable construction materials.
- Marine Ecosystem Protection: Launch initiatives focused on safeguarding marine biodiversity and preserving coastal ecosystems, ensuring the long-term health of Andheri’s coastal environment.
Key Benefits:
- Sustainable Maritime Growth: Promotes long-term environmental sustainability, ensuring ongoing protection of marine and coastal ecosystems.
- Green Technology Integration: Reduces the carbon footprint of port operations through the adoption of eco-friendly technologies.
- Ecosystem Preservation: Safeguards marine biodiversity and coastal environments with responsible, sustainable port management practices.
Incentives for Port and Maritime Investments in Andheri
The Andheri Port and Maritime Transport Council is dedicated to positioning the state as a premier hub for port development, maritime transport, and coastal economic growth. To achieve this, the council will offer a robust and enticing incentive package for investors, developers, and operators across key sectors such as port infrastructure, shipbuilding, logistics, marine tourism, ship recycling, and sustainable maritime technologies.
These incentives aim to attract both domestic and international investments, promote public-private partnerships (PPPs), and drive innovation and sustainability within Andheri’s maritime sector.
Capital Investment Subsidies
To stimulate investment in port infrastructure, shipyards, and maritime facilities, Andheri will offer significant capital subsidies. These subsidies are designed to reduce the initial financial burden on developers, making investments in the maritime sector more appealing and accessible.
| Incentive | Details |
| Port Development Subsidy | Up to 40% subsidy on capital investments for the construction of new ports, expansion of existing ports, and development of container terminals. |
| Marina and Harbor Development | 35% capital subsidy on investments in the construction of marinas, multi-purpose harbors, and yacht facilities for marine tourism. |
| Shipyard Construction | Up to 50% subsidy on capital investments for the development of shipyards, ship repair facilities, and ship recycling clusters. |
| Logistics Hub and Warehousing | Up to 30% subsidy on the development of logistics parks, cold storage facilities, custom-bonded warehouses, and container depots. |
| Marine Tourism Projects | 30% subsidy for investments in marine tourism infrastructure, including cruise terminals, water sports facilities, and resorts. |
| Green Port Initiatives | 35% subsidy on investments in green port technologies, including solar power installations, energy-efficient cargo handling, and waste management systems. |
Land Allotment and Concessions
Andheri will offer land at concessional rates and other incentives to support the development of maritime and port infrastructure. This initiative ensures that developers have access to strategically located land for port operations and the growth of related industries, fostering efficient and sustainable infrastructure projects.
| Incentive | Details |
| Land Allotment for Port Development | Long-term leases of up to 99 years for land required for port development, with discounted lease rates for investors in priority sectors. |
| Concessional Land for Industrial Hubs | Concessional land allotment for the development of Coastal Economic Zones (CEZs) near ports, facilitating industries like petrochemicals, manufacturing, and shipbuilding. |
| Fast-Track Land Acquisition | Fast-track approvals for land acquisition in designated maritime zones, ensuring quick project implementation and reduced bureaucratic delays. |
| Preferential Treatment for SEZs | Land in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) for maritime-related industries will be allotted at concessional rates, promoting exports and industrial growth. |
Tax Incentives
Andheri will provide a broad array of tax incentives to help reduce operational costs for maritime investors. These include tax holidays, SGST reimbursement, and customs duty exemptions, all designed to support infrastructure development in the maritime sector.
| Incentive | Details |
| 100% SGST Reimbursement | Full reimbursement of State Goods and Services Tax (SGST) on the sale of goods and services related to port development, logistics, and maritime operations for a period of 10 years. |
| Income Tax Holidays | 10-year income tax holiday for companies involved in port operations, ship recycling, marine tourism, and logistics infrastructure. |
| Exemption on Stamp Duty and Registration | 100% exemption on stamp duty and registration fees for port developers, logistics parks, and marine tourism projects during the initial development phase. |
| Exemption on Electricity Duty | Exemption on electricity duty for port developers and operators for the first 7 years of operation to reduce energy costs. |
| Customs Duty Exemptions | Customs duty exemptions for the import of capital goods, machinery, and equipment required for port development, shipbuilding, and maritime infrastructure. |
Interest and Financial Support
To facilitate the financing of large-scale maritime projects, Andheri will offer interest subsidies and additional financial support to companies involved in port infrastructure, shipbuilding, and logistics development.
| Incentive | Details |
| Interest Subsidy on Loans | 50% interest subsidy on loans for port infrastructure projects, including cargo terminals, container depots, and logistics hubs, for a period of 7 years. |
| Subsidized Loans for Marine Tourism | Interest subsidies on loans for the development of marine tourism facilities, including marinas, cruise terminals, and water sports infrastructure. |
| Access to Venture Capital | Access to state-backed venture capital funds for companies investing in innovative maritime technologies, such as green shipping, automation, and smart port solutions. |
| Export Credit and Financing Support | Export credit facilities for businesses exporting from Andheri’s ports, ensuring competitive financing for maritime trade. |
| Performance-Based Financial Support | Additional financial incentives based on the performance of ports in terms of cargo handled, employment generated, and adherence to green standards. |
Environmental and Sustainable Development Incentives
To encourage sustainable port development and minimize the environmental impact of maritime activities, Andheri will offer incentives for green projects focused on energy efficiency, waste management, and reducing carbon footprints.
| Incentive | Details |
| Green Port Subsidies | 35% capital subsidy for projects that invest in solar energy, wind energy, and energy-efficient port infrastructure. |
| Grants for Waste Management Systems | Grants for ports and shipyards that implement waste management, recycling systems, and ballast water treatment technologies. |
| Carbon Offset Credits | Ports and maritime operators can receive carbon offset credits for implementing low-carbon technologies, which can be traded or used for tax reductions. |
| Green Building Certifications | Subsidies and tax incentives for developers constructing LEED-certified buildings and eco-friendly facilities within port zones and logistics parks. |
| Marine Environment Protection Funds | Financial support for ports that invest in marine biodiversity protection, coastal restoration, and sustainable fishing practices in Andheri’s coastal regions. |
Incentives for Coastal Shipping and Inland Waterways Development
To promote the expansion of coastal shipping and inland waterways, Andheri will provide targeted incentives designed to lower infrastructure development and operational costs in these sectors.
| Incentive | Details |
| Subsidies for Coastal Shipping Terminals | 30% subsidy on the development of coastal shipping terminals, Ro-PAX facilities, and logistics hubs that support coastal trade and transport. |
| Tax Benefits for Coastal Operators | Income tax exemptions for coastal shipping operators for a period of 10 years, promoting the use of coastal shipping routes over road transport. |
| Inland Waterways Development Grants | Grants and subsidies for the construction and operation of inland waterway terminals, encouraging the use of waterways for freight movement and reducing congestion on roads. |
| Custom Duty Exemptions | Customs duty exemptions for the import of vessels, barges, and infrastructure required for coastal and inland waterway shipping. |
Incentives for Marine Tourism Development
Andheri’s vast coastline offers significant opportunities for marine tourism, with the state providing attractive incentives to investors in cruise tourism, marinas, and water sports infrastructure.
| Incentive | Details |
| Subsidies for Cruise Terminal Development | 30% subsidy on investments in cruise terminals, encouraging the development of luxury cruises, ferry services, and international passenger routes. |
| Marina Development Subsidy | 35% subsidy on investments in marina infrastructure, including yacht facilities, docking stations, and premium waterfront hospitality services. |
| Water Sports and Adventure Tourism Grants | Grants and incentives for companies developing water sports, including jet-skiing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and deep-sea fishing along Andheri’s coast. |
| Sea-Plane Connectivity Subsidy | Financial support for the development of sea-plane infrastructure, encouraging connectivity between Andheri and key coastal tourism destinations like Alibaug and Ratnagiri. |
Special Incentives for Technology and Innovation in Maritime Sector
Andheri is dedicated to leading in maritime innovation, offering incentives to companies advancing technologies in port automation, smart logistics, and shipbuilding.
| Incentive | Details |
| Smart Port Technology Grants | Grants for the deployment of smart port technologies, such as AI-driven cargo handling systems, real-time monitoring systems, and blockchain-based logistics solutions. |
| Incentives for Automation and Robotics | Subsidies for the installation of robotics and automated systems in container handling, ship repair, and cargo management to enhance operational efficiency. |
| Innovation and R&D Support | Grants for R&D in maritime technologies, including smart ports, AI-based maritime navigation, and green shipbuilding technologies. |
| Digital Infrastructure Development | Tax benefits for the development of digital infrastructure, such as port management systems, real-time data analytics, and digital shipping platforms. |
Incentives for Employment Generation and Skill Development
To foster local employment and skill development in the maritime sector, Andheri will provide incentives to companies that create jobs and invest in workforce training programs.
| Incentive | Details |
| Employment Generation Grants | Grants and subsidies for companies that create a significant number of jobs in port development, shipbuilding, logistics, and marine tourism sectors. |
| Skill Development Subsidies | 50% reimbursement for companies investing in maritime skill development programs, including training for port operators, logistics managers, and shipyard workers. |
| On-the-Job Training Incentives | Financial support for companies offering on-the-job training and internships for local workers in the maritime sector, promoting skill development and job creation. |
Export Promotion and Trade Facilitation
Andheri will offer incentives to boost exports and streamline international trade through its ports, ensuring exporters benefit from state-of-the-art infrastructure and comprehensive trade finance solutions.
| Incentive | Details |
| Export Infrastructure Grants | Grants for developing export-related infrastructure, including cold storage facilities, customs bonded warehouses, and container freight stations near major ports. |
| Export Credit and Trade Finance Support | Trade credit facilities and low-interest export financing for companies using Andheri’s ports to export goods globally. |
| Export Duty Exemptions | Duty exemptions on goods exported from Andheri’s ports, promoting the state’s position as India’s leading export hub. |
| International Trade Facilitation Services | Access to state-backed trade facilitation services, ensuring smooth and efficient export processes for businesses using Andheri’s ports. |
Conclusion
Andheri Leading India’s Maritime Revolution
The Andheri Port and Maritime Transport Council is dedicated to positioning the state as a global maritime hub. Through the development of world-class port infrastructure, the promotion of coastal shipping, and the commitment to sustainable practices, the council is set to revolutionize Andheri’s maritime sector. By encouraging private sector participation, creating integrated coastal economic zones, and fostering marine tourism, Andheri will lead India’s maritime growth.
Focused on sustainability, technology-driven port operations, and enhanced global connectivity, Andheri is poised to become the leading destination for international trade and logistics, driving port-led economic expansion.
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The is a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC) with a mission to establish Andheri as a key player in international economic collaboration, focusing on strategic partnerships with nations like USA, Europe, Australia, African Union, KSA, China, India, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and the UAE across vital sectors such as energy, technology, agriculture, and finance. Our goal is to integrate lessons from successful global economic models, adopting best practices to ensure sustainable and inclusive growth. We aim to enhance economic prosperity and diversification, contribute to societal progress, and promote sustainable economic practices. By leveraging Andheri’s unique position, strives to drive substantial economic growth, spur innovation, and solidify Andheri’s stature in the international economic arena, resonating with the government’s vision of a technologically advanced and interconnected economy.