Commonwealth_ India_ The Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) has identified four potential sites for port-led city development in the districts of Porbandar, Bhavnagar, Surat, and Valsad, according to an official release. These sites were selected after a series of site visits and assessments by consultants engaged by the GMB. The decision was made based on key factors such as deep-water access, availability of waterfront space, strong road and rail connectivity, and the capacity to support sustainable industrial growth.
For over a decade, the Gujarat government has been working towards developing port-led cities. Back in 2012, a similar proposal was put forward to establish port cities in Mundra and Pipavav, but the plan did not materialize. Now, the GMB has once again shortlisted potential locations for this ambitious project, with South Gujarat emerging as a key region due to its excellent connectivity and proximity to cargo-generating zones like Special Economic Zones (SEZs). The identified sites are strategically positioned to maximize both industrial and maritime potential.
Bhavnagar is considered one of the strongest candidates because of its deep draft, which is essential for accommodating large vessels, and its strategic location along the Gujarat coastline. This makes Bhavnagar a prime spot for port-led development, which could drive economic growth and provide a significant boost to the state’s shipping and logistics industries. The natural depth of Bhavnagar’s waters and its existing infrastructure are crucial elements that support its potential for large-scale industrial activity.
Surat also ranks high on the list due to its established infrastructure and close ties to major industrial zones and ports, particularly Hazira, an industrial powerhouse. The presence of industries and its location within one of the most industrialized regions in India make Surat an attractive choice for a port-led city. Its robust industrial base provides a foundation for future development, which could include expanding port facilities and improving logistical networks to meet increasing demand.
The location in Valsad has been selected for its proximity to deep-water access, which is essential for the development of a port city. The area’s access to a reliable transportation network also makes it a key player in the potential development of new industrial hubs along the Gujarat coast. Similarly, Porbandar has the potential to support port-led development due to its advantageous maritime position and proximity to international shipping routes. These attributes, combined with the availability of land and waterfront space, make it a viable candidate for the GMB’s initiative.
The selection process for these four sites was rigorous, utilizing a multi-criteria analysis framework that ensured each location met essential maritime, industrial, and environmental standards. This comprehensive evaluation was conducted using a Multi-Criteria Matrix (MCM), which assigned weight to various factors based on their importance to the success of the project. Factors such as deep-water access, transportation connectivity, proximity to industrial zones, and environmental sustainability were given significant weight. The consultants calculated scores for each potential site based on how well they met these criteria, and the top four locations were selected through this structured ranking system.
According to the official release, this methodical approach to site selection ensures that the shortlisted locations are well-suited for the sustainable and efficient development of Gujarat’s port-led city initiative. The GMB aims to create port cities that are not only economically viable but also environmentally responsible, supporting long-term growth in industrial sectors while maintaining high environmental standards. These port cities will be designed to be future-proof, meaning they will be equipped with the necessary infrastructure to handle future industrial demands and evolving maritime trends.
