Dakshin Bharat Gateway Terminal (DBGT) has handled M.V. MSC Silvia, the widest vessel ever to berth at the facility, marking a new benchmark in its capability to accommodate large mainline container vessels. The ship berthed at DBGT on July 19, 2026, with a beam of 48.20 metres, an LOA of 300 metres, and a carrying capacity of 9,411 TEUs. It arrived from Port of Onne, Nigeria.
What the milestone means for Tuticorin
The successful call demonstrates DBGT’s infrastructure readiness and its ability to safely manage increasingly larger container ships, underscoring growing confidence among global shipping lines in the terminal and the expanding role of Tuticorin in India’s maritime logistics network. DBGT credited V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) for strategic infrastructure investments that have strengthened the port’s capacity and competitiveness on international shipping routes, and thanked Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) for deploying mainline services through the terminal.
Impact on trade connectivity
Regular deployment of larger vessels is expected to improve direct connectivity, enhance service reliability, and create greater opportunities for exporters and importers across southern India. DBGT acknowledged the EXIM trade community, shipping lines, vessel operators, and logistics stakeholders for supporting its growth, and credited Team DBGT’s planning and execution for the safe, efficient handling of the record vessel.
Outlook for DBGT
The milestone reinforces DBGT’s position among India’s emerging container terminals capable of handling large mainline vessels. As global vessel sizes continue to grow, the terminal said it remains focused on expanding capabilities and strengthening Tuticorin’s role as a preferred gateway for international shipping and trade.
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