JSW Dharamtar Port expansion gets green nod

A government expert panel has granted environmental and coastal regulation zone (CRZ) clearances for the expansion of JSW Dharamtar Port’s cargo handling capacity from 33.95 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) to 54 mtpa at Dharamtar Creek in Maharashtra. The recommendation came despite environmental concerns flagged during a site inspection by a ministry’s subcommittee. The panel observed mangroves coated with coal and iron ore dust, wastewater discharge into sensitive areas, and coal spillage that could increase river turbidity and contaminate the riverbed. Further, higher cargo movement could affect mangrove growth along the creek. JSW Dharamtar Port has agreed to implement mitigation measures, including installing protective barriers and preparing a mangrove conservation plan, while continuing its expansion and mechanisation plans.