Gujarat: Cushman & Wakefield Chosen To Prepare A Master Plan For Development Of International Port City

Cushman & Wakefield, a renowned global real estate consultancy, has been appointed to develop the master plan for a port city project in Gujarat.

Inspired by leading port cities such as Rotterdam, Antwerp, Hong Kong, and Dubai, this project will include strong port infrastructure, industrial zones, bustling commercial centres, and residential areas designed for skilled professionals crucial to the port and associated industries' growth.

In August 2023, Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB), the key agency for the development of the maritime industry in the state, sought proposals from top consulting firms to craft a master plan for the port city.

The selected consultant is required to assess seven shortlisted locations — Pipavav, Hazira, Valsad district (including Nargol greenfield site), Porbander, Amreli, Bhavnagar and Gulf of Kutch — for the international port city project.

Additionally, the consultant can propose an alternative location for consideration. Cushman has already commenced work on the project's master plan and has a 12-month timeline to finalise the exercise.

Blessed with a coastline stretching over 1,600 km, Gujarat holds the distinction of having the longest coastline in the country, providing unparalleled access to major international maritime routes.

The Gujarat Maritime Board has crystallised the idea of a dedicated port city to leverage the state's maritime prowess and overhaul its economy and urban fabric.

This proposal for the port city project was also highlighted in the Vision 2047 document, unveiled by the GMB at the 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, held in Gandhinagar in January this year.

According to the GMB, it will float tenders inviting port developers to develop the project, once the master plan and location are finalised.