India: Big Push on Coastal Shipping of Thermal Coal under Sagarmala
The State Government of Odisha will partner the Ministry of Shipping for taking ahead the ‘port-led development’ agenda under Sagarmala, the flagship program of the Ministry. The State Government has confirmed 10% equity participation in the Special Purpose Venture (SPV) of Indian Port Rail Corporation Ltd (IPRCL) that will be formed for development of a heavy haul rail corridor from Salegaon to Paradip port.
Essar Ports Handles Record Volume
On the back of increased production by its anchor customers, Essar Ports Limited (EPL) has registered significant growth in cargo handling over the last three months. In March 2016 alone, EPL’s four operational ports handled total cargoes of 6.25 million tonnes (MMT), which translates to a run rate of 75 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). With the recent commissioning of the 20 MMT Salaya Bulk Terminal, cargo handling will see a further boost in FY2017.
India's Coal Imports Causing Port Congestion
Congestion at Paradip expected to ease in a week if rains stop; higher-than-usual congestion at some other ports too. Indian power and steel companies are importing shiploads of coal due to a severe shortage at home, leading to heavy congestion in one of the country's busiest ports that now has twice the number of vessels waiting than its available berths. The over-crowding at Paradip port…