APM Terminals Pipavav Signs Key Contracts for Liquid Cargo Jetty Development: Boosting Gujarat’s Port Infrastructure
APM Terminals Pipavav, one of India’s leading port operators, has taken a major step forward in expanding its infrastructure with the signing of two significant contracts for the development of a dedicated Liquid Cargo Jetty at Pipavav Port. The move follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier this year at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024, underlining the state’s push to strengthen its maritime and logistics sector.
The contracts were formally executed with L&T Geostructure Pvt. Ltd. for the construction of the new jetty and Van Oord India Pvt. Ltd. for dredging and reclamation works. The signing ceremony took place at GIFT City, Gandhinagar, in the presence of Shri Rajkumar Beniwal, IAS, Vice Chairman & CEO of the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB).
The development centers on Berth 6, which will be dedicated to handling liquid cargo. Once completed, the facility is expected to significantly enhance Pipavav Port’s capacity to manage petroleum products, chemicals, and other liquid commodities—cargo types that are seeing rising demand both in domestic consumption and international trade.
APM Terminals Pipavav currently operates as a multi-cargo facility handling containers, bulk, breakbulk, and liquid cargo. However, with India’s energy needs growing rapidly and Gujarat emerging as a hub for petrochemicals and refineries, the new berth will allow the port to play a stronger role in this supply chain.
“This project marks an important milestone for Pipavav Port. By adding a specialized liquid cargo jetty, we are not only expanding our handling capacity but also contributing to India’s growing energy and chemical trade requirements,” a company spokesperson said.
Gujarat has long positioned itself as the maritime gateway of India, with more than 40 ports dotting its coastline and contributing around 40% of the nation’s total cargo throughput. The state government has been proactive in promoting port-led development, with the Gujarat Maritime Board playing a central role in facilitating projects and partnerships.
At the signing event, Shri Rajkumar Beniwal highlighted the importance of such investments. “Gujarat’s ports are at the heart of India’s global trade ambitions. Projects like the dedicated liquid cargo jetty at Pipavav will not only enhance our handling capabilities but also attract more industry, investment, and employment opportunities to the region,” he said.
The investment aligns closely with the Sagarmala Programme, the Government of India’s flagship initiative aimed at modernizing port infrastructure and integrating ports with industrial and transport corridors. By boosting liquid cargo handling, Pipavav Port is set to become more competitive in attracting global shipping lines and industrial clients.
The involvement of L&T Geostructure Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro known for its expertise in complex marine construction, ensures that the jetty development will meet global standards of safety and efficiency. Meanwhile, Van Oord India Pvt. Ltd., part of the Dutch marine contractor Van Oord, brings international experience in dredging and land reclamation—critical elements in creating and sustaining modern port infrastructure.
Both companies have previously executed large-scale maritime infrastructure projects in India and abroad, giving confidence that the Pipavav development will proceed on time and with high quality.
The liquid cargo jetty is expected to have a multiplier effect on regional economic growth. Not only will it support industries in Gujarat’s petrochemical belt, but it will also enhance trade connectivity for northern and western India. With better capacity to handle liquid bulk, businesses in sectors ranging from energy to manufacturing will benefit from more reliable supply chains.
Moreover, the project is likely to generate direct and indirect employment during both construction and operational phases. From skilled engineers and construction workers to logistics providers and service operators, a wide range of jobs will emerge as part of the port’s expansion.
The development also underscores the strategic significance of Pipavav Port within India’s maritime map. Located on the Arabian Sea coast, Pipavav provides a natural gateway for international shipping routes, reducing congestion at larger ports like Mundra and Kandla while offering shippers an efficient alternative.
While no official completion date has been announced, industry analysts believe that once operational, Berth 6 will give APM Terminals Pipavav a sharper competitive edge in the cargo handling business. The move reflects the company’s long-term commitment to India, where it has been investing steadily in infrastructure upgrades to support trade growth.
As India pushes to increase its share of global trade, modern port facilities will be essential to meet international standards of efficiency and environmental compliance. Pipavav’s liquid cargo jetty, backed by strong engineering and supported by Gujarat’s proactive maritime policies, represents another step in that direction.
With this development, APM Terminals Pipavav not only strengthens its own portfolio but also contributes to Gujarat’s vision of being the country’s foremost maritime hub—a vision that was prominently showcased at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit earlier this year.
Author: shipping inbox
shipping and maritime related web portal
