With environmental clearances in place, Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) is set to launch a major dredging and redevelopment project to enhance the port’s capacity and versatility. The four-year initiative will deepen the port’s approach channel from 14.4 metres to nearly 20 metres, enabling it to accommodate Capesize vessels.
“We plan to dredge our approach channel to 19.5 metres to allow Capesize vessels. The Centre is keen on developing deep-draft berths at major ports,” said MPA Vice-Chairman Vinayaka Rao. A consultant will soon be appointed to prepare a detailed project report, with government support being sought to accelerate progress.
In parallel, MPA has secured approval to redevelop Berth 9, previously home to a mechanical ore handling plant, into a modern multi-cargo facility. A consultant has been engaged to design the berth with a “vision for the next 50 years,” Rao added.
Berth 9 is the last unmonetised berth at MPA. Earlier attempts to redevelop it along with three barge jetties via the PPP route, at an estimated cost of ₹842 crore, were stalled due to uncertainties around the resumption of iron ore mining in Goa. Plans with Goa Shipyard Limited for a ship repair and refit facility also did not materialise.
The port is now offering 200–250 metres of waterfront at Berth 9, previously used for iron ore handling for three decades. “We will seek approvals from the Government of India in September and expect all approvals by December-January. Construction will take about 24 months, with tendering completed by year-end,” Rao said. The channel deepening and Berth 9 redevelopment are expected to transform Mormugao into a future-ready multi-cargo hub, strengthening its role in India’s maritime and trade network.
