%20(1)%20(1).png)
India’s Maritime Game-Changer: BMCT-II Propels JNPA Beyond 10M TEUs
- Ajjay Bhagyakar
- Sep 5
- 3 min read
Author: Ajjay Bhagyakar
Source: Free Press Journal
In September 2025, India’s maritime narrative took a bold leap forward with the inauguration of the second phase of the Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal (BMCT-II) at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), Uran, Navi Mumbai. The ceremony, graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, underscored India’s growing prominence in global trade and logistics.
Landmark Achievements
Record-breaking Capacity
BMCT’s second phase has doubled its throughput—from 2.4 million TEUs to 4.8 million TEUs—making it the largest standalone container terminal in the country. Hindustan TimesPSA International
JNPA Surpasses 10M TEUs
With BMCT-II, JNPA now boasts an aggregate capacity of around 10.4 million TEUs across five container terminals, alongside two liquid and two general cargo berths—an achievement reflecting its central role in national trade. Fortune IndiaFAN Transport InsightsConstruction World
Infrastructure & Connectivity
State-of-the-Art Facilities
BMCT spans 200 hectares, featuring a continuous 2,000-meter quay, 24 quay cranes, 72 rubber-tyred gantry cranes, and multiple rail-mounted cranes—among the most advanced in Asia. The Times of IndiaPSA InternationalEnglish Bombay Samachar
Seamless Multimodal Logistics
With six Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC)-ready rail sidings, BMCT offers direct connectivity to over 63 Inland Container Depots (ICDs)—sharpening logistical responsiveness for exporters and importers. PSA InternationalAJOTFAN Transport Insights
Accommodating Mega-Vessels
The terminal’s deep-draft berths can accommodate ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs), up to 18,000 TEUs, bolstering India’s global shipping capabilities. The Times of IndiaEnglish Bombay Samachar
Sustainability, Digitization & Security
Green Terminal Leadership
BMCT-II stands as India’s first 100% green terminal, currently operating on 60% renewable energy, with plans to reach full sustainability through solar power, rainwater harvesting, and electrified operations. Maharashtra TimesFAN Transport InsightsConstruction WorldPSA International
Smart & Secure Operations
Innovation fuels efficiency here—with digital twins, 5G-enabled systems, real-time truck scheduling, and a fortified cybersecurity framework. The sophisticated gate complex includes eight automated entry/exit lanes, accompanied by paperless systems, weighbridges, and radiation scanning—ensuring speed and safety. FAN Transport InsightsConstruction WorldEnglish Bombay Samachar
Strategic Insights & Future Outlook
India–Singapore Strategic SynergyDeveloped under a 30-year public–private partnership, this USD 1.3 billion (~SGD 1.7 billion) investment by PSA International represents the largest FDI in India’s port infrastructure. PSA InternationalHindustan Times
Operational Milestones & Capacity UtilizationIn FY 2024, JNPA handled 7.05 million TEUs, demonstrating robust growth. BMCT now handles a growing share, aiming for 45–50% of JNPA’s traffic by 2027. FAN Transport InsightsBusiness Standard
Spatial Constraints & Vadhavan VisionUrban constraints at Uran limit further expansion. Consequently, the new Vadhavan Port—located 150 km north in Palghar—is in development to ensure long-term capacity and efficiency enhancements. FAN Transport InsightsFortune IndiaWikipedia
Enhanced Logistics SupportJNPA also offers a public centralised parking plaza and is constructing an empty container yard—reducing congestion and improving turnaround. FAN Transport InsightsConstruction World
Conclusion
The inauguration of BMCT-II is more than an infrastructure triumph; it’s a strategic transformation. Through unmatched capacity, green and smart technologies, and global collaboration, JNPA is charting India’s ascent as a global logistics powerhouse. As Vadhavan Port takes shape to further future-proof growth, Maharashtra is firmly on track to become a sustained maritime leader for the next century.
Comments