TRANSHIPMENT HUB IN ANDAMAN - GEOGRAPHY

News: Bulk cargo transhipment hub to be developed in Atlanta Bay in Andaman and Nicobar: Sonowal

 

What's in the news?

       Recently, the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) visited the site of the proposed International Container Transhipment Port (ICTP) at Galathea Bay in Great Nicobar Island.

 

Key takeaways:

       ICTP is envisioned to be a transformative initiative aligning with the Maritime India vision 2030 as well as one of the key projects in the Amrit kaal Vision 2047.

 

Transhipment Hub in Andaman:

       The ICTP is a major infrastructure project that aims to facilitate the transshipment of containers between different ports.

 

Location:

       The proposed ICTP at Galathea Bay, Great Nicobar Island, is strategically positioned just 40 nautical miles from the International shipping trade route.

 

Significance:

       A transshipment deepwater seaport facilitates the handling of large cargo vessels, featuring a deep water channel and expansive berth areas for efficient loading, unloading, and the seamless transfer of goods between ships at the port.

       The ICTP aims to become a leading container transshipment port by leveraging its strategic location, natural water depth, and capacity for the transshipment of cargo from nearby ports.

       India is banking on the strategic location of Galathea Bay for export-import trade as it lies on international shipping routes.

 

Benefits:

       The project is expected to generate forex savings, attract foreign direct investment, and boost economic activity at other Indian ports.

       It will also contribute to enhanced logistics infrastructure, employment generation, and increased revenue share.

       The development of this Mega Container Terminal is a part of the holistic development of Great Nicobar Island.