Karanja Development Puts Strain on Infrastructure

But,the Port Rises Up to the Challenge

- Gajanan Khergamker

Continuing from December 2024 issue, Gajanan Khergamker highlights that Karanja Port marks a new chapter in Maharashtra's maritime history, blending the spirit of Sassoon Docks with modern technology. Despite its rapid growth, the port faces infrastructure challenges. However, Karanja stands out for its proactive approach, focusing on planning and innovation rather than reacting to crises. With eco-friendly practices and inclusive policies, Karanja sets a benchmark for fishing ports in India. From its origins as a small fishing hamlet, Karanja has become India's largest fishing port, reflecting a broader shift in the country's maritime economy.

Karanja's rapid growth has put a strain on its infrastructure. The port, while equipped with modern facilities, is struggling to keep up with the sheer volume of activity. During peak fishing seasons, over 10,000 trawlers compete for limited berth space, causing congestion and delays. The cold storage units, though state-of-theart, are often operating at full capacity, raising the risk of spoilage during high-yield periods. Additionally, the road network is buckling under the weight of transporting fresh and processed fish to markets and export hubs.

In response, the Maharashtra government has launched a 1200 crore 'Karanja Port Expansion Plan' aimed at addressing these challenges. The plan will double the port's berth capacity, allowing for the accommodation of up to 20,000 vessels. It will also expand cold storage facilities, adding an additional 3000 metric tonnes of capacity, and build a dedicated logistics hub with rail and road connections to streamline transport and reduce bottlenecks.