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The Tamil Nadu government expects to attract invetsments worth Rs 15,000 crore in the next 10 years by way of a policy for the development of minor ports and for improving port infrastructure in the state. The policy is part of the state's Vision 2023.
The investment would increase cargo throughput from the non-major ports to about 150 million tonne in the next 10 years. To achieve this, the Tamil Nadu Maritime Board would invite proposals to promote non-major ports either through private investment or in public private participation (PPP).
The policy note on ports mentioned the state was in the process of developing a greenfield port at Nagapattinam for which it would formulate a techno-economic feasibility report by engaging IIT Madras for developing an all-weather deep water direct berthing port near the existing Nagapattinam minor port. The IIT, in its report, recommended developing the port at an estimate of Rs 380 crore.
The state government had also roped in i-Maritime Consultancy Private Limited, Mumbai, to get the feasibility report updated till 2013. This would help the state get clarity on project viability in line with the cargo handling potential and for finalising the bid document, the note stated.
The state is also planning to develop a greenfield port at Cuddalore even as the Government of India has approved the state's proposal for setting up a petroleum, chemical and petrochemical investment region (PCPIR) in Cuddalore and Nagapattinam districts. Many imported coal-powered thermal plants were planned/under implementation in Cuddalore district.
Besides, it is also in the process of analysing the potential viability for developing ports in Rameswaram, Valinokkam and Kanyakumari.
Meanwhile the Vision 2023 policy envisages to facilitate establishment of port-based thermal power plants by providing exclusive port facilities for the import of coal, naphtha, oil and natural gas; promote export-based industries along the coastal districts and to decongest highways and railways by providing facilities on the east coast.
It would also help the government promote tourism, cruises, coastal trade and to provide facilities to encourage ship repairing and construction of floating crafts.
