Concerns mount over VOC port project cost estimates

26 Mar 2024 CW Team

Potential bidders express concerns regarding VOC Port's outer harbour box terminal project cost estimates. The estimated investment is Rs 70,559.5 million for a four million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) capacity container terminal. Bidders call for re-evaluating the project's cost, which they deem to be at least 50% lower than realistic estimates.

The National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts (NTCPWC) prepared the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the project, estimating Rs 6,984.5 million for breakwater construction and Rs 12,335.1 million for dredging in the basin and outer harbour channel for the first phase. Concerns arise regarding the accuracy of these estimates.

Port expert Devdatta Bose highlights discrepancies in the estimated costs, particularly for breakwater construction and dredging. He suggests a higher cost analysis, indicating potential underestimation by NTCPWC.

The port authority defends the estimates, citing the methodology used and the proximity of material sources for construction. They maintain that the estimates were submitted for approval in January 2023.

Potential bidders propose revisiting cost estimates or increasing viability gap funding (VGF) to 50% to ensure project viability. However, the port authority stands by its estimates, expressing confidence in the methodology used.

Secretary TK Ramachandran assures flexibility in revisiting project terms if necessary. He encourages potential developers to approach the project with a positive mindset, emphasizing its viability and market-driven tariffs.

Suggestions are made to enhance the project's attractiveness, including allocating land for a free trade zone. These suggestions are acknowledged for further consideration.

Infrastructure Transport

22 Jul 2025

Adani Plans Rs 1 Trillion Investment to Expand Airport Business

Adani Enterprises is set to invest Rs 1 trillion in its airport business over the next five to ten years as it seeks to transform Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL) into a global aviation leader. The group currently operates seven airports across India—Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Jaipur, Guwahati, and Thiruvananthapuram—and intends to significantly scale operations both domestically and internationally.According to media reports, the investment will focus on expanding terminal capacity, enhancing cargo infrastructure, and developing city-side assets such as hotels, commercial..

CWD Limited Wins Rs 531 Million Order From CyanConnode

Mumbai, Maharashtra, 21 July 2025 – CWD Limited, a global leader in IoT design and manufacturing, is pleased to announce that it has secured a major purchase order from CyanConnode Private Limited for the supply of Cellular NIC cards valued at Rs 531 million.This significant order highlights the strengthening collaboration between CWD Limited and CyanConnode, further cementing their strategic partnership. The alliance builds upon the success of their consortium for the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) services project in Goa.The substantial order is expected to considerably enhance CWD..

Wheels India Eyes Export Growth Amid Gains in Construction and Tractor Sectors

Wheels India Ltd, a leading manufacturer of wheels for trucks, agricultural tractors, and passenger vehicles, is placing significant emphasis on its export business and has made substantial progress in the construction and tractor segments, a senior official stated.The city-based company remains confident of export growth this year despite ongoing tariff uncertainties.Wheels India Ltd Chairman S Ram, addressing shareholders at the 66th Annual General Meeting on Thursday, noted that the company’s overseas subsidiaries in the United States and Europe would provide further momentum for business..