India Delivers Second Batch Of Equipment For Development Of Chabahar Port In Iran

Continuing with its commitment to the development of the strategically-located Chabahar Port in Iran, India has delivered the second shipment of equipment comprising two mobile harbour cranes, reports Economic Times.

"Continuing with our commitment to develop Chabahar Port, second shipment of equipment reaches Shahid Behesti Terminal," Ports Shipping and Waterways Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said in a tweet.

Located in the Sistan-Balochistan province on Iran's southern coast, Chabahar Port had already received the first batch of two such cranes in January. In addition, Iran is expected to receive two more of these cranes by end of June.

Furthermore, the Government is also looking to procure rail-mounted cranes to further bolster the capabilities and infrastructure at the Iranian port. The bidding for the same is going on presently.

India and Iran had in May 2016 signed a bilateral contract with a total value of $85 million for equipping, mechanising, and starting operations at the port under the first phase. For the same, the two nations had established a special purpose vehicle under the Indian Ministry for Ports, Shipping and Waterways by the name of India Ports Global Limited (IPGL).

The development of the port will boost economic and mutual relations between India and Iran and at the same time expand connectivity with the Central Asian countries.