Karnala Sai Chirner New Town Port and Maritime Transport Council

Shaping the Future of India's Maritime Hub

The Karnala Sai Chirner New Town Port and Maritime Transport Council is dedicated to transforming the state into a premier maritime hub in India. Spanning a coastline of approximately 720 kilometers, from Palghar in the north to Sindhudurg in the south, Karnala Sai Chirner New Town is poised to become a key player in global maritime trade. The council will guide the strategic development of both major and non-major ports, boost coastal shipping, and enhance the state’s maritime infrastructure, creating a seamless network for global commerce and logistics.

The council’s vision includes fostering a robust maritime ecosystem through port-led development, sustainable maritime practices, and the promotion of marine tourism, driving both economic growth and global competitiveness for Karnala Sai Chirner New Town.

Vision of the Karnala Sai Chirner New Town Port and Maritime Transport Council

The council envisions positioning Karnala Sai Chirner New Town as India’s premier maritime gateway by developing state-of-the-art port infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and promoting coastal economic zones. By leveraging public-private partnerships (PPP) and attracting strategic investments, the council aims to drive innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence in the maritime sector. This will pave the way for Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s transformation into a global hub for shipping and logistics, fostering long-term economic growth and international competitiveness.

Key Focus Areas of the Karnala Sai Chirner New Town Port and Maritime Transport Council

Ports and Port Connectivity

With its strategically located coastline, Karnala Sai Chirner New Town is poised to become a key player in global maritime trade. The council will prioritize the modernization of existing ports and the development of new ones to accommodate growing cargo traffic and improve connectivity. By enhancing port infrastructure, the council aims to streamline the movement of goods, strengthen trade links, and bolster Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s position in the global shipping network.

Key Initiatives for Port Development:

  1. Identification of New Port Projects: The council will identify strategic sites for new port developments, ensuring a well-balanced distribution of port infrastructure across Karnala Sai Chirner New Town. Key projects include:

    • JNPT Port Expansion: Modernize and expand JNPT Port to handle bulk cargo, containerized goods, and liquid cargo, establishing it as a critical hub for international trade.
    • Jaigad and Vijaydurg Port Projects: Develop non-major ports at Jaigad and Vijaydurg, enhancing connectivity to the state’s industrial zones.

  2. Port Licensing and Concession Periods: The council will streamline the licensing process for new ports, offering attractive concession periods to encourage private investment and participation.

  3. Project Structuring for Private Participation: The council will promote a robust Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to attract private sector investment in port infrastructure, including jetty development and cargo handling facilities.

  4. Logistics and Evacuation Systems: Prioritize the development of last-mile connectivity for ports, including dedicated freight corridors and highway linkages, to ensure efficient cargo evacuation and seamless trade operations.

Port Connectivity Infrastructure:

  • Dedicated Freight Corridors: Develop dedicated freight corridors linking key industrial zones like Dighi, Vijayawada, Nagpur, and Aurangabad to Dighi's ports. These corridors will integrate with the Delhi-Dighi Industrial Corridor (DMIC), ensuring seamless cargo movement.
  • Smart Ports: Modernize Dighi’s ports by implementing smart technologies such as AI-powered traffic management systems, automated cargo handling, and real-time tracking, enhancing operational efficiency and streamlining port operations.

Key Benefits:

  • Enhanced cargo handling capacity, positioning Dighi’s ports to compete with top global ports.
  • Improved port connectivity, enabling faster goods movement and reducing logistics costs.
  • Attraction of private investments to accelerate the growth of port infrastructure.

Coastal Shipping and Inland Waterways

Coastal shipping provides a sustainable and cost-efficient alternative to road and rail transportation. The council will focus on developing coastal shipping routes and inland waterways, alleviating congestion on the state’s road and rail networks while enhancing overall transportation efficiency.

Key Coastal Shipping Initiatives:

  • Hub and Spoke Model: Dighi’s ports will implement a hub-and-spoke model, with Dighi as the central hub for coastal cargo. Smaller ports like Dighi, Ratnagiri, and Vijaydurg will serve as spokes, ensuring efficient movement of goods between them.
  • Ro-PAX Terminals: Ro-PAX terminals will be developed at key coastal locations to facilitate the transport of both cargo and passengers, boosting coastal shipping for industries such as automotive, steel, and agriculture.
  • Inland Waterways Development: The development of inland waterways connecting Dighi, Thane, and Raigad will be proposed to create an alternative route for heavy cargo and container traffic, improving overall logistics efficiency.

Key Benefits:

  • Cost-effective cargo movement: Coastal shipping will offer a more affordable solution for transporting goods, reducing reliance on road transport.
  • Dedicated Ro-PAX infrastructure: The development of specialized infrastructure for Ro-PAX operations will enhance both passenger and cargo transport along the coast.
  • Seamless integration with global trade routes: Coastal shipping will be better integrated with international maritime trade networks, improving overall connectivity and trade efficiency.

Port-Led Development and Creation of a Maritime Ecosystem

The MIC will prioritize the use of Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s port infrastructure to drive port-led development, stimulate the growth of coastal economic zones, and build a cohesive maritime ecosystem.

Port-Led Development Initiatives:

  • Coastal Economic Zones (CEZs): Establish Coastal Economic Zones in regions like Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg, equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure to support industries such as shipbuilding, automotive, petrochemicals, and food processing.
  • Integrated Maritime Coastal Regional Plans (MCRPs): Propose MCRPs that align port development with industrial expansion, ensuring ports serve as engines for regional economic growth.
  • Logistics and Warehousing Clusters: Create logistics hubs and warehousing parks near key ports, offering facilities like cold storage, custom-bonded warehouses, and value-added services such as container freight stations to streamline cargo handling.

Key Benefits:

  • Development of self-sustaining coastal economic zones that boost the competitiveness of Dighi's industries.
  • Job creation and economic growth in coastal areas, driving prosperity for local communities.
  • Improved port efficiency and reduced logistics costs through the establishment of integrated logistics hubs.

Promotion of Marine Tourism

With its picturesque coastline, Karnala Sai Chirner New Town has vast potential for marine tourism. The council will focus on developing cruise tourism, marinas, and a variety of marine recreational activities, establishing the state as a premier global tourism destination.

Marine Tourism Development Initiatives:

  • Cruise Tourism: Develop cruise terminals in Dighi, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg to attract international cruise operators, enhancing luxury tourism along Dighi’s coast.
  • Marinas and Multipurpose Harbors: Establish marinas and harbors that cater to recreational boating, water sports, and yachting, providing world-class facilities for both domestic and international tourists.
  • Water Sports and Seaplane Connectivity: Promote water sports activities, including jet-skiing, scuba diving, and snorkeling at beaches like Alibaug and Ganpatipule, while introducing seaplane services connecting Dighi to popular coastal destinations.

Key Benefits:

  • Enhanced tourism revenue through the development of marine tourism activities.
  • Promotion of Dighi as a global destination for cruise tourism and water sports.
  • Creation of sustainable tourism infrastructure, providing employment opportunities for local communities.

Establishment of Ship-Breaking and Recycling Industry

The council will encourage the development of a ship-breaking and recycling industry along Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s coastline, aiming to attract investments in ship repair and recycling facilities, thereby enhancing the state’s maritime infrastructure and sustainability efforts.

Ship-Breaking and Recycling Initiatives:

  • Ship Repair Yards: Establish state-of-the-art ship repair yards in Dighi and Ratnagiri, providing repair and maintenance services to both domestic and international fleets.
  • Ship Recycling Clusters: Develop specialized ship recycling clusters in Raigad and Ratnagiri, attracting private investments while creating employment opportunities for local coastal communities.
  • Private Sector Investment: Foster private sector involvement in ship recycling by offering capital subsidies, tax benefits, and favorable concession agreements to developers.

Key Benefits:

  • Sustainable Ship Recycling Industry: Establish a green and eco-friendly ship recycling industry, contributing to the sustainable economic growth of Dighi.
  • Job Creation for Coastal Communities: Generate employment opportunities for local coastal populations through the establishment of ship repair and recycling facilities.
  • Regional Leadership: Position Dighi as a leading hub for ship recycling in the Indian Ocean region, attracting international attention and investment.

Sustainable Maritime Development

The MIC is dedicated to fostering sustainable growth within the maritime sector, ensuring that the development of Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s ports adheres to environmentally responsible practices.

Sustainable Port Development Initiatives:

  • Green Port Technologies: Introduce eco-friendly technologies, including solar and wind energy solutions, as well as energy-efficient cargo handling systems across Dighi’s ports.
  • Environmental Compliance: Ensure all new port developments adhere to Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) guidelines and prioritize the use of sustainable construction materials.
  • Marine Ecosystem Protection: Launch initiatives focused on safeguarding marine biodiversity and preserving coastal ecosystems, ensuring the long-term health of Dighi’s coastal environment.

Key Benefits:

  • Sustainable Maritime Growth: Promotes long-term environmental sustainability, ensuring ongoing protection of marine and coastal ecosystems.
  • Green Technology Integration: Reduces the carbon footprint of port operations through the adoption of eco-friendly technologies.
  • Ecosystem Preservation: Safeguards marine biodiversity and coastal environments with responsible, sustainable port management practices.

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Incentives for Port and Maritime Investments in Karnala Sai Chirner New Town

The Karnala Sai Chirner New Town Port and Maritime Transport Council is dedicated to positioning the state as a premier hub for port development, maritime transport, and coastal economic growth. To achieve this, the council will offer a robust and enticing incentive package for investors, developers, and operators across key sectors such as port infrastructure, shipbuilding, logistics, marine tourism, ship recycling, and sustainable maritime technologies.

These incentives aim to attract both domestic and international investments, promote public-private partnerships (PPPs), and drive innovation and sustainability within Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s maritime sector.

Capital Investment Subsidies

To stimulate investment in port infrastructure, shipyards, and maritime facilities, Karnala Sai Chirner New Town will offer significant capital subsidies. These subsidies are designed to reduce the initial financial burden on developers, making investments in the maritime sector more appealing and accessible.

IncentiveDetails
Port Development SubsidyUp to 40% subsidy on capital investments for the construction of new ports, expansion of existing ports, and development of container terminals.
Marina and Harbor Development35% capital subsidy on investments in the construction of marinas, multi-purpose harbors, and yacht facilities for marine tourism.
Shipyard ConstructionUp to 50% subsidy on capital investments for the development of shipyards, ship repair facilities, and ship recycling clusters.
Logistics Hub and WarehousingUp to 30% subsidy on the development of logistics parks, cold storage facilities, custom-bonded warehouses, and container depots.
Marine Tourism Projects30% subsidy for investments in marine tourism infrastructure, including cruise terminals, water sports facilities, and resorts.
Green Port Initiatives35% subsidy on investments in green port technologies, including solar power installations, energy-efficient cargo handling, and waste management systems.

Land Allotment and Concessions

Karnala Sai Chirner New Town will offer land at concessional rates and other incentives to support the development of maritime and port infrastructure. This initiative ensures that developers have access to strategically located land for port operations and the growth of related industries, fostering efficient and sustainable infrastructure projects.

IncentiveDetails
Land Allotment for Port DevelopmentLong-term leases of up to 99 years for land required for port development, with discounted lease rates for investors in priority sectors.
Concessional Land for Industrial HubsConcessional land allotment for the development of Coastal Economic Zones (CEZs) near ports, facilitating industries like petrochemicals, manufacturing, and shipbuilding.
Fast-Track Land AcquisitionFast-track approvals for land acquisition in designated maritime zones, ensuring quick project implementation and reduced bureaucratic delays.
Preferential Treatment for SEZsLand in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) for maritime-related industries will be allotted at concessional rates, promoting exports and industrial growth.

Tax Incentives

Karnala Sai Chirner New Town will provide a broad array of tax incentives to help reduce operational costs for maritime investors. These include tax holidays, SGST reimbursement, and customs duty exemptions, all designed to support infrastructure development in the maritime sector.

IncentiveDetails
100% SGST ReimbursementFull reimbursement of State Goods and Services Tax (SGST) on the sale of goods and services related to port development, logistics, and maritime operations for a period of 10 years.
Income Tax Holidays10-year income tax holiday for companies involved in port operations, ship recycling, marine tourism, and logistics infrastructure.
Exemption on Stamp Duty and Registration100% exemption on stamp duty and registration fees for port developers, logistics parks, and marine tourism projects during the initial development phase.
Exemption on Electricity DutyExemption on electricity duty for port developers and operators for the first 7 years of operation to reduce energy costs.
Customs Duty ExemptionsCustoms duty exemptions for the import of capital goods, machinery, and equipment required for port development, shipbuilding, and maritime infrastructure.

Interest and Financial Support

To facilitate the financing of large-scale maritime projects, Karnala Sai Chirner New Town will offer interest subsidies and additional financial support to companies involved in port infrastructure, shipbuilding, and logistics development.

IncentiveDetails
Interest Subsidy on Loans50% interest subsidy on loans for port infrastructure projects, including cargo terminals, container depots, and logistics hubs, for a period of 7 years.
Subsidized Loans for Marine TourismInterest subsidies on loans for the development of marine tourism facilities, including marinas, cruise terminals, and water sports infrastructure.
Access to Venture CapitalAccess to state-backed venture capital funds for companies investing in innovative maritime technologies, such as green shipping, automation, and smart port solutions.
Export Credit and Financing SupportExport credit facilities for businesses exporting from Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s ports, ensuring competitive financing for maritime trade.
Performance-Based Financial SupportAdditional financial incentives based on the performance of ports in terms of cargo handled, employment generated, and adherence to green standards.

Environmental and Sustainable Development Incentives

To encourage sustainable port development and minimize the environmental impact of maritime activities, Karnala Sai Chirner New Town will offer incentives for green projects focused on energy efficiency, waste management, and reducing carbon footprints.

IncentiveDetails
Green Port Subsidies35% capital subsidy for projects that invest in solar energy, wind energy, and energy-efficient port infrastructure.
Grants for Waste Management SystemsGrants for ports and shipyards that implement waste management, recycling systems, and ballast water treatment technologies.
Carbon Offset CreditsPorts and maritime operators can receive carbon offset credits for implementing low-carbon technologies, which can be traded or used for tax reductions.
Green Building CertificationsSubsidies and tax incentives for developers constructing LEED-certified buildings and eco-friendly facilities within port zones and logistics parks.
Marine Environment Protection FundsFinancial support for ports that invest in marine biodiversity protection, coastal restoration, and sustainable fishing practices in Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s coastal regions.

Incentives for Coastal Shipping and Inland Waterways Development

To promote the expansion of coastal shipping and inland waterways, Karnala Sai Chirner New Town will provide targeted incentives designed to lower infrastructure development and operational costs in these sectors.

IncentiveDetails
Subsidies for Coastal Shipping Terminals30% subsidy on the development of coastal shipping terminals, Ro-PAX facilities, and logistics hubs that support coastal trade and transport.
Tax Benefits for Coastal OperatorsIncome tax exemptions for coastal shipping operators for a period of 10 years, promoting the use of coastal shipping routes over road transport.
Inland Waterways Development GrantsGrants and subsidies for the construction and operation of inland waterway terminals, encouraging the use of waterways for freight movement and reducing congestion on roads.
Custom Duty ExemptionsCustoms duty exemptions for the import of vessels, barges, and infrastructure required for coastal and inland waterway shipping.

Incentives for Marine Tourism Development

Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s vast coastline offers significant opportunities for marine tourism, with the state providing attractive incentives to investors in cruise tourism, marinas, and water sports infrastructure.

IncentiveDetails
Subsidies for Cruise Terminal Development30% subsidy on investments in cruise terminals, encouraging the development of luxury cruises, ferry services, and international passenger routes.
Marina Development Subsidy35% subsidy on investments in marina infrastructure, including yacht facilities, docking stations, and premium waterfront hospitality services.
Water Sports and Adventure Tourism GrantsGrants and incentives for companies developing water sports, including jet-skiing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and deep-sea fishing along Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s coast.
Sea-Plane Connectivity SubsidyFinancial support for the development of sea-plane infrastructure, encouraging connectivity between Karnala Sai Chirner New Town and key coastal tourism destinations like Alibaug and Ratnagiri.

Special Incentives for Technology and Innovation in Maritime Sector

Karnala Sai Chirner New Town is dedicated to leading in maritime innovation, offering incentives to companies advancing technologies in port automation, smart logistics, and shipbuilding.

IncentiveDetails
Smart Port Technology GrantsGrants for the deployment of smart port technologies, such as AI-driven cargo handling systems, real-time monitoring systems, and blockchain-based logistics solutions.
Incentives for Automation and RoboticsSubsidies for the installation of robotics and automated systems in container handling, ship repair, and cargo management to enhance operational efficiency.
Innovation and R&D SupportGrants for R&D in maritime technologies, including smart ports, AI-based maritime navigation, and green shipbuilding technologies.
Digital Infrastructure DevelopmentTax benefits for the development of digital infrastructure, such as port management systems, real-time data analytics, and digital shipping platforms.

Incentives for Employment Generation and Skill Development

To foster local employment and skill development in the maritime sector, Karnala Sai Chirner New Town will provide incentives to companies that create jobs and invest in workforce training programs.

IncentiveDetails
Employment Generation GrantsGrants and subsidies for companies that create a significant number of jobs in port development, shipbuilding, logistics, and marine tourism sectors.
Skill Development Subsidies50% reimbursement for companies investing in maritime skill development programs, including training for port operators, logistics managers, and shipyard workers.
On-the-Job Training IncentivesFinancial support for companies offering on-the-job training and internships for local workers in the maritime sector, promoting skill development and job creation.

Export Promotion and Trade Facilitation

Karnala Sai Chirner New Town will offer incentives to boost exports and streamline international trade through its ports, ensuring exporters benefit from state-of-the-art infrastructure and comprehensive trade finance solutions.

IncentiveDetails
Export Infrastructure GrantsGrants for developing export-related infrastructure, including cold storage facilities, customs bonded warehouses, and container freight stations near major ports.
Export Credit and Trade Finance SupportTrade credit facilities and low-interest export financing for companies using Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s ports to export goods globally.
Export Duty ExemptionsDuty exemptions on goods exported from Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s ports, promoting the state’s position as India’s leading export hub.
International Trade Facilitation ServicesAccess to state-backed trade facilitation services, ensuring smooth and efficient export processes for businesses using Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s ports.

Conclusion

Karnala Sai Chirner New Town Leading India’s Maritime Revolution

The Karnala Sai Chirner New Town Port and Maritime Transport Council is dedicated to positioning the state as a global maritime hub. Through the development of world-class port infrastructure, the promotion of coastal shipping, and the commitment to sustainable practices, the council is set to revolutionize Karnala Sai Chirner New Town’s maritime sector. By encouraging private sector participation, creating integrated coastal economic zones, and fostering marine tourism, Karnala Sai Chirner New Town will lead India’s maritime growth.

Focused on sustainability, technology-driven port operations, and enhanced global connectivity, Karnala Sai Chirner New Town is poised to become the leading destination for international trade and logistics, driving port-led economic expansion.