Move marks a key step in Mumbai Port’s drive towards sustainable and environmentally responsible operations
Mumbai: The Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) has declared its Jawahar Dweep Marine Oil Terminal plastic-free, marking a significant step in its ongoing efforts to promote sustainable and environmentally responsible port operations.
The declaration was made during Swachhata Abhiyan 2026, organised at Grey Gate, Indira Dock, Mumbai, to commemorate the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal led the programme in the presence of Dr. M. Angamuthu, Chairperson, Mumbai Port Authority, Deputy Chairman Ravish Kumar Singh and other senior officials.
Jawahar Dweep, one of Mumbai Port’s major oil-handling terminals, has now been brought under the port’s broader initiative to reduce the use of single-use plastic across its operations. The authority said similar measures would continue throughout the year across its docks, residential colonies and coastal areas.
Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said cleanliness is an integral part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Swachh Bharat vision and appreciated the Mumbai Port Authority for its continued efforts towards plastic reduction and improved waste management.
“A plastic-free Jawahar Dweep is proof that India’s ports can grow and stay clean at the same time. Under the vision of our dynamic Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Swachh Bharat has become a way of working, not just a day we observe, and our Safai Karmis are the ones who make that vision real, every single day, at every port in this country,” Sonowal said.
The programme began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, followed by the Swachhata Pledge. A short film highlighting Mumbai Port’s Swachh Bharat initiatives and achievements over the past year was also screened.
Sonowal subsequently felicitated the port’s Safai Karmis, acknowledging their contribution to maintaining cleanliness and supporting the smooth functioning of port operations. The Minister also interacted with the sanitation workers and heard about their experiences, followed by a tea reception organised in their honour.
During the programme, Sonowal also dedicated the port’s Oil Spill Response (OSR) facilities to the nation, underlining the port’s focus on environmental preparedness and marine safety.
The celebrations concluded with a hands-on cleanliness drive led by the Union Minister at multiple locations across the port. The activities covered the area south of 18ID, the OSR facilities, a sea-cleaning activity, the wharf at the BPX North Area, and a mooring staff toilet facility.
The cleanliness activities were presented as a practical demonstration of the commitment expressed through the Swachhata Pledge.
Dr. M. Angamuthu, Chairperson of Mumbai Port Authority, said the Swachhata Abhiyan provided an opportunity to recognise the daily contribution of the port’s sanitation workforce while reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to sustainable and responsible operations.
Mumbai Port Authority said it would continue to advance the Swachh Bharat vision, with environmental sustainability, waste reduction and employee welfare being integrated into its day-to-day functioning alongside continued growth in port operations.