The mega international container transshipment port (ICTP) at Galathea Bay — in the Great Nicobar island in the Bay of Bengal — has been notified as the 13th major port.
- This paves the way for the development of the port, which could prove a game changer for maritime trade in the region.
- The ICTP will be strategically located on the East-West international trade and shipping route in proximity to transshipment terminals like Singapore, Klang and Colombo.
- The Great Nicobar island, part of the Union territory of Andaman and Nicobar islands, is 40 nautical miles from Malacca Strait — the international shipping channel catering to about 35 per cent of the annual global sea trade.
- Currently nearly 75% of India’s transshipped cargo is handled at overseas ports.
- Colombo, Singapore and Klang cumulatively handle more than 85 per cent of this cargo, with 45 per cent going to Colombo port.
- The status change to major port will help access central government financing.
