Following is from http://pib.nic.in/release/release.asp?relid=46317.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today approved the project of Construction of Deep Draught Coal Berth at Paradip Port on Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) basis at an estimated cost of Rs.479.01 crore, out of which Rs.408.90 crore will be borne by the BOT operator while Rs.70.20 crore will be borne by the Paradip Port Trust. The length of the approved BOT Coal Berth would be 370 meter, alongside depth of (-)17.1 meter which will be capable of handling vessels of 1,25,000 Dead Weight Tonnage (DWT) and will have developed stacking area of about 1,47,000 sqm. The project is to be implemented within a period of 36 months from the date of award of the concession.

The following are the benefits/results of the project:

(i) The project will help in de-congestion of Port due to handling of coal in higher capacity vessels upto 1,25,000 DWT.

(ii) Reduce Sea freight which will make imports cheaper.

(iii) Boost the industrial economy in the hinterland of Port leading to creation of job opportunities.

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AD/SH/LV