VASCO
Delta Ports Mormugao Terminal (DPMT) began operating Berths 10 and 11 at Mormugao Port on Friday.
The operations were officially launched by Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) Chairman Dr N Vinodkumar in the presence of senior MPA officials and DPMT representatives.
DPMT, a subsidiary of Delta Infralogistics Worldwide Limited (DIWL), signed a 30-year Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement with MPA for the operation and maintenance of the two berths. The MoU was exchanged at the Global Maritime India Summit 2023 in Mumbai.
As per the agreement, DIWL will invest Rs 140 crore in the project and provide MPA with a monthly royalty.
Dr Vinodkumar said the collaboration would reduce manpower strain on the port while boosting revenue. “This will be a 30-year relationship, starting today. DPMT’s Rs 140 crore investment will enhance the berths and increase business,” he said.
He also mentioned the potential for container operations. “DPMT can set competitive rates for exporters and importers. Talks are on with feeder vessel operators to ensure weekly container movements. Two electric cranes with a 130-tonne capacity are now operational,” he added.
DPMT Chairman Mohiuddin Ahmed reaffirmed the firm’s focus on efficiency and sustainability. “We aim to introduce advanced technology while promoting a clean environment. Our key cargo target is fertilisers currently routed via Kandla Port. We aim to divert this to Goa,” he said.
Ahmed said the goal is to shift container traffic from road and rail to sea, reducing emissions. Warehousing infrastructure is expected to be ready before the monsoon.
DPMT Goa In-Charge Raghoba Kotkar said managing their own terminal was a “dream come true” after two decades at the port. “We’re focusing on green cargo and container transport for pharma and seafood. Container services are expected to begin in a few months,” he said.
The firm also plans to handle imports like wheat and other cargoes, including iron ore, gypsum, limestone, and wood chips.
“Our aim is to create more jobs for Goans,” said Kotkar.
