The Union Cabinet has approved a crucial 32-kilometre road project designed to enhance connectivity between the forthcoming Vadhvan Port in Maharashtra’s Palghar district and National Highway 48. This decision, announced by the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), is set to play a pivotal role in the port’s development, which falls under the JNPA’s administration.
The National Highways Authority of India’s Land Acquisition Committee (NHAI-LAC) has sanctioned the connectivity plan and empowered the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to commence necessary proceedings. A recent gazette notification, effective from August 12, designates the route from Tawa Junction on NH-48 to Vadhvan Port as a national highway.
Unmesh Sharad Wagh, Chairman of the JNPA, underscored the project’s importance, stating, “Constructing this road is essential to initiate operations at Vadhvan Port. It will facilitate the transportation of quarry materials to the port, as the existing local roads are inadequate for handling such heavy loads. The decision by the Ministry to classify this road as a National Highway will significantly accelerate the development process.” Following this approval, the land acquisition process for the road will begin, with tenders to be issued for the construction of the initial 20-kilometre segment, which will feature a two-lane configuration. This segment represents the first phase of a broader connectivity strategy for Vadhvan Port, with plans for future extensions to ensure comprehensive access.
The Vadhvan Port initiative, which received Cabinet approval in June, is slated to progress post-monsoon, contingent upon the completion of road connectivity. This development is anticipated to drive regional growth and enhance tourism prospects in the Palghar district, further boosting the economic landscape of the region.
