By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, April 7, 2018: Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday inaugurated the Phase II expansion of Dhamra Port here at Dhamra in Bhadrak district paving the way of the Port’s cargo handling capacity to reach 100 million ton per annum (mtpa), up from 25 mtpa at present.

The port is developed by Adani Group’s Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ).

Speaking on the occasion, Naveen remarked that Dhamra Port is a model of modern maritime trade in Odisha and a successful example of Public Private Partnership. “The industrial park being set up by Adani will unleash large scale industrialization in the area and create employment opportunities,” he observed.

Adani Group chairman Goutam Adani said the Phase II expansion of Dhamra Port would not only make Dhamra India’s largest port but serve as India’s major gateway for trade with South East Asian nations. “We would like to sincerely thank all the government officials for their support in completing this expansion which will enhance growth, trade and industry for Odisha and India,” said Mr Gautam Adani.

Karan Adani, CEO, APSEZ, said the Phase II expansion was completed way before schedule.

“It will help achieve the company’s Vision 2020 of handling 200 million tonnes (mt), well ahead of time. We now aim to touch 500 mt by the year 2025,” said CEO Mr Adani.

The Phase II expansion of Dhamra Port will increase the cargo handling capacity of the port to over 100 mtpa, up from 25 mtpa at present. The company deployed more than 3,000 manpower with around 88 per cent locals employed for the Phase II expansion.

The port is located at 215 Kms from Bhubaneswar and is situated between Haldia in West Bengal and Paradip in Odisha. The port serves as a gateway to Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar and the entire geopolitical region including the ASEAN region.