The EPC arm of Ruias-led Essar Group, Essar Projects has bagged a Ro-Ro Ferry facility project from the Gujarat government. To be constructed between Gogha and Dahej, the project cost is estimated at around Rs 225 crore.
"The total project will cost Rs 225 crore and is scheduled to be completed in 15 months," Essar Projects said in a statement issued on Wednesday. The project awarded by the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) is part of the government of GujaratRs s effort to leverage its 1,600-km-long coastline as a means to develop trade and transport between Southern Gujarat and Kutch.
With the foundation stone for the project being laid by Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi at Gogha on Wednesday, the project will now aim to reduce the 350-km Gogha-Dahej land-route to 31 km by sea. "The Ro-Ro Ferry Service will facilitate safe and speedy passenger travel and goods movement between Gogha and Dahej by reducing the 360-km land-route to 31 km by sea," the company stated.
This more than 80 per cent reduction in distance will result in valuable savings in fuel costs and travel time, thereby contributing to a cleaner and greener Gujarat, the company added.
"It is a matter of pride for us to associate with this prestigious project. The vision of Gujarat to provide a strategic connectivity through this project will go a long way in boosting trade and industry," said Alwyn Bowden, president and CEO of Essar Projects.
The project work includes design and construction of Ro-Ro Service terminals at both Gogha and Dahej, besides building an approach bund of 609 metres, of which 497 metres will be at Gogha and 112 metres at Dahej. Moreover, the company will also design and construct an approach trestle of total 562 metres, of which 472 metres will be at the Gogha-end and 90 metres at the Dahej-end and develop seven Dolphins spread over 84 metres. Meanwhile, a survey conducted by GMB earlier said with large quantum of passenger and cargo traffic available in the area, there was potential to develop a ferry service in the Gulf of Cambay. Add to that, in order to develop the stateRs s 1,600 km long coastline, the Government of Gujarat has constituted a Rs Gujarat Coastal Area Development BoardRs (GCADB).
