JSW Infrastructure has secured a significant development opportunity with the receipt of the Letter of Award (LOA) on November 16 for the construction of the Keni greenfield port in Karnataka. This strategic venture, estimated at Rs 4,119 crore, is poised to have an initial capacity of 30 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), as highlighted in the company’s press release.
The Keni port project holds immense promise as it is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing the escalating import and export trade activities in the region. Arun Maheshwari, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of JSW Infrastructure, emphasized the critical significance of the Keni port, foreseeing its essential role in sustaining the momentum of trade in the area.
The proposed Keni port is designed to incorporate state-of-the-art, eco-friendly mechanized facilities for handling cape-size vessels. This development aligns with JSW Infrastructure’s commitment to modern and sustainable port operations. The port’s strategic positioning is intended to cater to the industrial needs of the broader region, covering key areas such as Bellary, Hosapete, Hubballi, Kalaburagi, and South Maharashtra, according to the statement issued by the ports arm of the Sajjan Jindal-led JSW Group.
The significance of this project was underscored by the fact that JSW Infrastructure emerged as the sole bidder for the development of the port earlier this year, as reported by various media outlets. The Karnataka government, recognizing the importance of bolstering its port infrastructure and contributing to economic strengthening, had invited bids for the development of ports at both Keni and Pavinakurve in 2022.
JSW Infrastructure’s diversification into port development aligns with the broader vision of the JSW Group, a conglomerate engaged in various sectors. The move into port services complements the group’s existing portfolio and reflects a strategic commitment to infrastructure development, which is integral to fostering economic growth and connectivity.
