VARANASI: India is eyeing cargo handling by the private sector to jump to 85% by 2030 from 56% now as it implements the National Monetisation Pipeline, Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said recently. Total cargo handled at ports stood at 1251.38 million tonnes in 2020-21.
He added the Government wants the private sector to operate more jetties and terminals and is open to restoring financial support for inland waterways.
The goals are very feasible if you consider the progress in the last eight years. Up to 2013-14, cargo handling capacity of inland waterways stood at only 16 million tonnes per annum (mtpa). In just eight years, it has risen to
109 mtpa. This massive growth has been possible because the government paid attention and developed infrastructure. Private sector was also taken on board by sensitising them about using the rivers. Cargo handling capacity has significantly increased in coastal shipping, maritime trade, mainline shipping and via inland waterways. Development of competitive infrastructure and bringing down logistics costs is a key focus area for the Government.
On National MOnitisation Plan in Shipping sector, he said, The Shipping Ministry's target under asset monetisation is Rs. 12,550 crore for
2022-23. Our goal is to ensure that the cargo handling capacity of the private sector grows under the plan. Private sector handles 56% of the total cargo at present. This is expected to increase to 85%. We would also want the private sector to operate more jetties and terminals.
