H.N. Aswath is development adviser (ports) in the Ministry of ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW). He is responsible for the technical appraisal of port projects. In the past, he has worked with the Ministry of Agriculture and been associated with research projects as a member secretary, MoPSW. Additionally, he had been associated with New Mangalore port as chief engineer and he was involved in initiating port projects, including mechanisation of the container terminal, liquefied natural gas berth development and fishing harbour development.
According to Aswath, adequate capacity, at both major and non-major ports and inland waterways, is of utmost importance to meet the needs of EXIM and domestic cargo movement. In order to enhance capacity creation and facilitate logistics for sea transport, planning, technical expertise, timely execution and monitoring of port projects are required. Moreover, preparing port planning for port projects in a systematic manner and using oceanographic parameter data are the primary prerequisites of effective project execution. In this regard, the study of macroeconomic prerequisites on traffic and hinterland connectivity is crucial for the development of adequate infrastructure. Aswath notes, “The development of infrastructure with modal share for road transport, railways and waterways has been strengthened with the GatiShakti National Master Plan for the development of multimodal infrastructure planning. The GIS-based data layers with visualisation of infrastructure assets and social structure infrastructure enable infrastructure planning for multimodal connectivity.”
The most memorable assignments of Aswath’s career have involved the technical appraisal of challenging mega infrastructure projects such as the fourth container terminal at Jawaharlal Nehru Port, the mega container terminal at Chennai port and deepening of channels at Paradip port. The major challenge faced was the projection of technical requirements with adequate technical data support. Other demanding assignments include the formulation of dredging guidelines for major ports and preparing strategies for sustainable dredging projects.
Aswath enjoys reading autobiographies of accomplished individuals, singing in different languages, debating and performing traditional dances. This helps him maintain a good work-life balance and expand his horizons.