The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) has announced the start of operations at its port-based Special Economic Zone (SEZ) at Sheva, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra.

JNPT’s two units in its multi-product SEZ-- OWS and Krish Food Industry -- have completed their Phase-I of operational activity and have been declared operational units by the Development Commissioner, SEEPZ, SEZ. Three more companies are likely to commence their construction activities soon.

JNPT has allotted plots to 19 MSMEs and one Free Trade Warehousing Zone (FTWZ) co-developer at its multi-product SEZ spread over 277 ha. The remaining units are also expected to become operational soon.

When fully operational, the SEZ is expected to generate Rs 4,000 crore of investments and create 57,000 jobs.

JNPT is providing infrastructure and facilities to units in the SEZ. The port authority enjoys the Special Planning Authority (SPA) status for the SEZ project.

Also, the electricity distribution license from MERC, Maharashtra government, is provided to JNPT SEZ. All the clearances for setting up the SEZ are in place. This will further help in reducing set-up time and cost for the units being set up in JNPT SEZ and enhance the Ease of Doing Business.

The multi-product port-based SEZ aims to boost exports by enabling port-led industrialisation under the Sagarmala Program of the Ministry of Shipping.