GSL had sent a technical team to visit the port and the team found berth no. 9 to be a viable location for a repair and construction facility. GSL is expected to submit a counter offer by mid-January.
MPA’s proposal contains details about the cost of leasing the berth, which was earlier used for handling iron ore, for 30 years.
“The MoU with GSL was signed last year. It is currently at the discussion stage. We have given GSL a financial proposal and GSL will revert with their offer,” said a MPA official, adding, “We hope that we can quickly agree on a financial model for 25-30 years.” On September 25, 2023, Union minister for shipping, ports and waterways Sarbananda Sonowal had announced GSL’s interest in the port’s idle facilities. MPA plans to offer 200-250m of waterfront area at berth no. 9 to the defence sector shipyard. GSL’s existing facility limits further expansion and the shipyard is unable to bid for construction of larger vessels as it does not have the depth and area at its current location. GSL is eager to build larger and more warships for the export market, officials said.
