Adani to invest Rs 425 billion more in Maharashtra’s Dighi Port

The Adani Group has committed to invest an additional Rs 425 billion in the Dighi Port project, located along Maharashtra’s coastal Konkan belt, government officials announced on Monday.

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ)-run Dighi Ports signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Maharashtra government to undertake the expansion of the port and related infrastructure. This new commitment comes as part of a broader investment initiative by the state.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the agreement is among 15 MoUs worth over Rs 560 billion signed during the opening day of the India Maritime Week. The deals cover a wide range of sectors including port expansion, shipbuilding, technology, and ancillary activities.

The Adani Group, led by Gautam Adani, India’s second-richest industrialist, had acquired the bankrupt Dighi Port project in 2021 through a Rs 7.05 billion bid, with an initial commitment of Rs 100 billion for expansion.

Fadnavis highlighted that these new investments will help Maharashtra move towards becoming a “maritime superpower” and improve integration with global supply chains. He also announced that the JSW Group will invest Rs 37.09 billion to expand its Jaigad port facility, while the Chowgule Group has pledged Rs 50 billion for shipbuilding and rig repair operations.

In addition, Synergy Shipbuilders will invest Rs 10 billion, and Goa Shipyard will contribute Rs 20 billion towards shipbuilding and repair activities.

The Maharashtra government is also planning to introduce a ‘water taxi’ service connecting the newly inaugurated Navi Mumbai Airport—operated by the Adani Group—with the Gateway of India in South Mumbai, making it the first airport in the country to offer such a service.

Plans are also underway to develop a state-of-the-art marina in Mumbai for water transport and sports, alongside partnerships to strengthen maritime education and technology. IIT Bombay has signed on to create training and skill development facilities for sector professionals.

Fadnavis assured investors of seamless cooperation with the Union government to create a world-class maritime ecosystem.

Related Stories