UK ports, logistics cos call on India for expansion

CHENNAI: A Delegation of 10 ports and logistics company from the UK was in Chennai on Tuesday, exploring options of investing in development of ports in India. Their main attractions were the government���s stimulus package aimed at accelerating the growth of infrastructure in India and the private-public partnership (PPP) working model.

���The UK port development industry has saturated now, with no need for more ports,��� said the UK Ports and Terminals Group chairman Gordon Rankine. ���Whereas, the National Maritime Development Programme (NMDP) has earmarked Rs 55,804 crore for 276 port-related projects to be completed in India by 2011-12.���

The delegation emphasised the need for a logistics park to manage the cargo that India handles. A logistics park is envisioned to include a port, an air terminal, roadways, rail connectivity and warehouses. Mr Rankine pointed out that five different logistics companies were already involved in port-related development activities in Tamil Nadu alone. ���We find the policy framework, which encourages any infrastructure-related activity and allows us to get involved in port operations in partnership with Indian companies, also favourable for investment,��� he said.

The delegation expressed interest in engaging in partnerships in areas of technical consultancy, port management and operations.

However, European port companies are all looking at emerging markets now, and the most popular destination is the Middle East, said Mr Rankine. ���The Indian government might need to incentives port activities in India to attract those companies here.���