Jawaharlal Nehru Port crosses 10 million TEU capacity, expands with ₹2,000 cr infrastructure projects

The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), located in Navi Mumbai, has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing the 10 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) mark in container handling capacity. This milestone strengthens JNPA’s position as India’s largest container port and one of the top global ports by volume. In 2024, JNPA handled a record 7.05 million TEUs, operating at over 90% capacity, with an annual growth rate of 11% compared to the previous year.

As part of its continued expansion, JNPA is implementing projects worth ₹2,000 crore. The second phase of the Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal (BMCT) was commissioned in January 2025, increasing the port’s capacity by 2.4 million TEUs. This expansion is crucial for accommodating the growing container traffic and improving the port’s ability to handle larger vessels efficiently, contributing to India’s global trade objectives.

In addition to expanding terminal capacity, JNPA is investing in enhancing the port’s operational infrastructure. Key additions include solar-powered boats, two 70-tonne tugs, and three fire tenders. These assets are expected to boost the port’s safety standards, enhance its efficiency, and reduce vessel turnaround times. The port's capacity enhancements align with the goals of reducing logistics costs under India’s Gati Shakti plan, a national initiative to modernize infrastructure and optimize supply chains.

Further expansions are planned, including the upgradation of the Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal (NSFT), which will add more handling capacity. By 2027, JNPA’s container handling capacity is projected to reach 10.4 million TEUs. These upgrades are aimed at meeting the growing demands of India’s trade sectors, from manufacturing to agriculture, and ensuring that JNPA remains competitive in the global maritime industry.

In addition to container handling, JNPA is focusing on the development of specialized trade infrastructure. A new agro-processing facility, with an investment of ₹284 crore, is being developed within the port area. The facility is designed to process, store, and transport agricultural commodities, with an annual handling capacity of 1.2 million tonnes. This facility will serve producers from Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat, and will improve the export and domestic trade of agro products by offering services like sorting, packing, and compliance testing.

JNPA is also advancing logistics infrastructure with the development of warehousing and temperature-controlled facilities. These facilities will support a capacity of 1,20,000 TEUs annually once operational. Additionally, a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) spanning 277.38 hectares within JNPA has been set up to support industrial development. The SEZ already has 54 operational units across various sectors, including warehousing, food processing, and manufacturing, with an expected investment of ₹1,700 crore. The SEZ is strategically connected to road, rail, and sea routes, enhancing the ease of doing business and making it a key hub for export-import activities.

JNPA’s initiatives also include major partnerships aimed at expanding port infrastructure. An MoU with HUDCO will provide ₹25,000 crore for the development of new ports and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects. Another MoU with Reliance Industries will facilitate the construction of a liquid jetty at the Vadhavan Port, with an estimated investment of ₹645 crore. The port also plans to establish a warehousing facility in the region, which is expected to further contribute to India’s logistics capacity and competitiveness in global trade.