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A government panel has supported environmental and CRZ clearance for expanding JSW Dharamtar Port’s capacity in Maharashtra, even after noting environmental damage in the surrounding area. The expansion aims to increase capacity from 33.95 MTPA to 54 MTPA, mainly to support cargo needs of the JSW Dolvi steel plant. During inspection, issues such as coal and iron ore dust on mangroves, wastewater discharge, and rising river turbidity were flagged. The company has agreed to take corrective steps, while authorities have stressed the need for stricter environmental monitoring.
A government expert panel has recommended environmental clearance (EC) and coastal regulation zone (CRZ) approval for the proposed expansion of cargo handling capacity at JSW Dharamtar Port in Maharashtra. The project aims to raise the port’s capacity from 33.95 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 54 MTPA, reflecting growing cargo demand linked to industrial operations. Advertisement
The recommendation followed a site visit by a sub-committee formed under the Environment Ministry. The inspection covered the jetty and surrounding areas along Dharamtar Creek in Raigad district, which serves as a key logistics point for raw material movement to the JSW Dolvi steel plant.
During the visit, the panel observed visible environmental stress in the region. Mangroves along the creek were found affected, with coal and iron ore dust deposited over large stretches. The committee noted that attempts such as creating tree barriers had been made to reduce dust spread, but these measures were not effective in controlling pollution.
The inspection also pointed to operational issues such as coal spillage and wastewater discharge in areas between the jetty and nearby land. These were linked to cargo handling and transfer activities, particularly the movement of imported coal. The panel raised concerns that continued handling of bulk materials could increase turbidity in the creek’s water, affecting the local ecosystem.
It was further noted that the mangrove cover in the Dharamtar Creek region is uneven. While some patches remain dense and healthy, other sections have been impacted due to ongoing industrial activity. The committee highlighted that such coastal ecosystems are sensitive and require careful management, especially when expansion projects are being considered.
JSW Dharamtar Port Private Limited informed the panel that it would follow all recommendations and take necessary corrective measures. The company indicated that steps would be implemented to control dust, manage wastewater, and reduce environmental impact as part of the expansion plan.
The proposed expansion is part of a broader strategy by JSW Infrastructure to strengthen its port capacity and improve cargo handling efficiency. Dharamtar Port has already seen phased development over the years to support bulk cargo movement, especially for steel manufacturing. The current proposal is expected to further streamline logistics for the Dolvi plant, which depends on steady raw material supply.
Past discussions around port-led development in Maharashtra have often included concerns about environmental impact, particularly on mangroves, fisheries, and coastal biodiversity. Similar concerns have been raised in earlier infrastructure projects across the state, making regulatory oversight an important part of approvals.
Source PTI
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