Navi Mumbai: The newly inaugurated container cargo terminal at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Uran marks a historic milestone for India’s maritime sector. With this expansion, JNPA has become the first Indian port to surpass the 10 million TEU capacity mark, cementing Maharashtra’s position as a leading hub in global shipping and logistics.

A centerpiece of this development is the Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal (BMCT), operated by PSA India. Following the completion of its Phase II development, BMCT now boasts a capacity of 4.8 million TEUs. Spanning over 200 hectares with more than two kilometres of quay length, the terminal is equipped with some of the most advanced port handling infrastructure in Asia.

The facility features 24 quay cranes, 72 rubber-tyred gantry cranes, and multiple rail-mounted gantry cranes, ensuring smooth cargo movement between sea and land. Six dedicated rail sidings enhance multi-modal connectivity, while deep draft berths allow the terminal to accommodate the world’s largest container vessels, carrying up to 18,000 TEUs, boosting India’s competitiveness in international shipping.

Security and efficiency are priorities at the terminal, with an eight-lane automated gate complex, paperless transactions, weighbridges, and radiation detection systems. Sustainability is central to JNPA’s vision; the terminal currently operates on 60 per cent renewable energy and plans to achieve 100 per cent in the coming years. It is India’s first fully green terminal, featuring solar power, rainwater harvesting, eco-friendly cargo handling, and plans to replace diesel trucks with electric fleets.

Digitisation plays a key role in operations, with digital twins, 5G-enabled systems, and advanced cybersecurity frameworks. Real-time truck scheduling, centralized parking plazas, and dedicated empty-container yards streamline logistics, reduce turnaround times, and enhance trade efficiency.

This world-class terminal is a significant achievement for Maharashtra and a turning point for India’s maritime sector. By combining high capacity, modern technology, sustainable practices, and smart operations, the JNPA container terminal positions India as a rising global hub for cargo handling and international trade.