Port investment

India: An INR 600 billion (US$ 13.8 billion) National Maritime Development Programme (NMDP) is about to be announced by India's Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, according to the India Times.

According to the newspaper, plans for a public—private partnership development programme are needed to increase capacity in the face of +10% annual increases in port traffic. Although some money would come from public budgets, the Ministry is reportedly looking for INR 392 billion (US$ 9 billion) of private investment over a 10—year period.

Construction work is expected to include the building of jetties and berths, along with the procurement and installation of new plant and equipment. Dredging work and other civil engineering is expected to be needed to deepen and widen shipping channels.

As well as upgrading port facilities, some INR 46 billion (US$ 1.05 billion) would be invested in improving rail connectivity with harbours.