Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) celebrated its 154th Foundation Day on Friday with the theme “Together We Can”, reaffirming its commitment to modernising India’s maritime infrastructure while honouring its rich legacy. The event was attended by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of State Shantanu Thakur, senior officials, industry stakeholders and members of the port community.
Congratulating Mumbai Port Authority on completing 154 years of service, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted the port’s pivotal role in transforming Mumbai into India’s financial and commercial capital. He said the port continues to play a vital role in the country’s maritime growth, aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of port-led development.
The Minister underlined several key initiatives being undertaken by Mumbai Port Authority, including the International Cruise Terminal, ferry jetty projects, Jawahar Dweep reclamation, and energy infrastructure developments aimed at strengthening logistics, tourism and energy security.
Minister of State Shantanu Thakur praised Mumbai Port Authority’s century-and-a-half-long contribution to India’s trade and maritime sector, acknowledging the efforts of officers, employees, workers, port users and stakeholders in sustaining the port’s growth. He noted that modern ports will play a critical role in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Vijay Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, highlighted Mumbai Port’s record cargo throughput of 70 million tonnes, while emphasizing the importance of stakeholder collaboration, green initiatives, cruise tourism, waterfront development and efficient utilisation of port assets.
Mumbai Port Authority Chairperson Dr. M. Angamuthu said the Foundation Day was an opportunity to reflect on the institution’s long-standing service to the nation and acknowledge the contributions of everyone associated with the port.
A major highlight of the event was the announcement of 63 development projects worth ₹5,028.17 crore, spread across three phases. These include:
- 7 inaugurated projects worth ₹132.29 crore
- 34 foundation stone projects worth ₹1,354.59 crore
- 22 newly announced projects worth ₹3,541.29 crore
During the programme, Mumbai Port Authority also exchanged the Indira Dock Operations & Maintenance Agreement and the Viksit Bharat Mumbai Marina Agreement, reinforcing its focus on enhancing port operations, waterfront development and optimal asset utilisation.
The celebrations featured a documentary showcasing Mumbai Port Authority’s journey and contributions to India’s maritime sector, along with a commemorative film marking 100 years of the Mumbai Port Sports Club. Awards were presented to employees, sports achievers, stakeholders and service partners for their outstanding contributions.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Adesh Titarmare, Deputy Chairperson, Mumbai Port Authority, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, officials, employees and stakeholders for making the Foundation Day celebrations a success.
