Gujarat Port Secretary Reviews Bhavnagar Maritime Infrastructure, Praises Alang Facilities
Bhavnagar: The Principal Secretary of the Ports and Transport Department of Gujarat, Harit Shukla, has expressed satisfaction with the infrastructure and operational standards across key maritime assets in Bhavnagar district, following an extensive review visit covering ship recycling, port development, and ferry services.
During his visit, Shukla conducted a detailed inspection of the world-renowned Alang Ship Recycling Yard, which is considered the largest ship recycling facility globally. In an interaction with Divya Bhaskar Group’s Saurashtra Samachar, he highlighted that the yard’s facilities now meet international benchmarks, reflecting significant improvements in environmental compliance and worker safety.
“Compared to its past perception, the transformation at Alang is notable. The facilities available here are beyond expectations and align with global standards,” Shukla said. He emphasized that strict adherence to environmental norms and safety regulations is now clearly visible on the ground.
One of the key highlights of the visit was the healthcare infrastructure at Alang. Shukla noted that the hospital facilities, including trauma care, outpatient departments (OPD), and indoor services, are comparable to those found in major urban centers. This marks a significant upgrade in worker welfare, particularly for laborers engaged in the physically demanding and high-risk process of ship dismantling.
The Principal Secretary also reviewed operations at the worker training complex, where structured programs are conducted to train laborers in safe and systematic ship-cutting techniques. These initiatives are aimed at reducing workplace accidents and ensuring compliance with international conventions governing ship recycling.
Adding to the ongoing development in the region, Shukla confirmed that nine new ship recycling plots are currently being developed along the coast near Mathawada village, adjacent to Alang. Construction work on these plots is underway and is expected to further strengthen India’s position in the global ship recycling industry.
Alang, which was once heavily criticized on international platforms for environmental concerns, is now undergoing a reputational turnaround. Shukla pointed out that hazardous waste management practices have significantly improved, particularly at the Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facility (TSDF) in Alang. The facility is now handling waste in a scientifically managed and environmentally sound manner.
Infrastructure connectivity has also seen notable improvements. Shukla praised the road network connecting Ahmedabad to Alang, stating that the well-maintained highways have enhanced logistics efficiency and reduced transportation time for materials and equipment.
Following his inspection at Alang, Shukla visited the Ghogha Ro-Pax Terminal, where he assessed the passenger and vehicle ferry services connecting Ghogha to Dahej. The Ro-Pax ferry service has emerged as a crucial transport link in the Gulf of Khambhat, significantly cutting travel time between Saurashtra and South Gujarat.
Officials briefed Shukla on operational performance, passenger facilities, and future expansion plans at the terminal. The Principal Secretary reviewed safety arrangements, ticketing systems, and passenger amenities, expressing overall satisfaction with the infrastructure.
As part of his itinerary, Shukla is also scheduled to visit the upcoming brownfield port project at Bhavnagar New Port. The project, aimed at boosting cargo handling capacity and regional trade, has been progressing slowly due to administrative and regulatory challenges.
Sources indicated that efforts are underway to address government-related hurdles that have delayed the project. Shukla is expected to review the status of the port and provide directives to accelerate its development.
In addition, he will assess existing operations at Bhavnagar Port and later proceed to visit the Lothal Maritime Museum, a key cultural and tourism project being developed to showcase India’s ancient maritime history.
The review visit underscores the Gujarat government’s focus on strengthening maritime infrastructure, improving compliance in ship recycling, and enhancing connectivity through ferry services. Bhavnagar district, with its strategic coastal location, continues to play a pivotal role in the state’s port-led development strategy.
Industry observers note that sustained investment in infrastructure, environmental upgrades, and policy support could further elevate Gujarat’s standing in global maritime trade and ship recycling. The positive assessment by the state’s top transport official is likely to boost confidence among stakeholders and investors associated with the sector.
With ongoing developments at Alang, Ghogha, and Bhavnagar New Port, the district is poised to emerge as a comprehensive maritime hub, integrating recycling, logistics, and port operations under a modern and sustainable framework.
Author: shipping inbox
shipping and maritime related web portal
