Enhancement of bulk cargo handling capacity at VOC Port

V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has achieved another major milestone in bulk cargo handling. The North Cargo Berth–III, operated by JSW Tuticorin Multipurpose Terminal is ready for interim commercial operations. The terminal can discharge dry-bulk cargo such as Coal, Limestone, Gypsum, Rock Phosphate and Copper Concentrate with two 120 tonnes capacity harbour mobile cranes.

The 306 meters long, 14.20 meters draft, North Cargo Berth–III facilitates berthing of 95,000 Dead Weight Tonnage vessels of maximum LoA of 260 meters and beam of 48 meters. The Concession Agreement has already been signed between the Port and JSW Tuticorin Multipurpose Terminal for mechanization of North Cargo Berth–III. On mechanization by March 2027, JSW Tuticorin Multipurpose Terminal will be capable of handling 7 million tonnes per annum.

The dredging in front of North Cargo Berth-III was carried out from 05.04.2025 and completed in a span of just 26 days enabling berthing fully loaded Panamax vessels with draft of 14.20 metres. At present, dredging is being carried out in the turning circle of the inner harbour to widen its diameter from 488 metres to 550 metres and shall be completed by May 2025.

Further, the channel will be widened from 153 meters to 230 metres, facilitating berthing of larger size bulk carriers and container vessels. The Link Conveyor system, connecting Tuticorin Thermal Power Station’s conveyor to the Port’s coal yard can discharge over 1500 tonnes of bulk cargo per hour. This initiative optimizes the capacity of the fully mechanized TANGEDCO’s coal berth, with a draft of 14.20 meters, a deadweight tonnage (DWT) of 80,000 tonnes, and accommodating vessels up to 230 meters in length.

Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, in his message, stated, “The readiness of NCB-III berth for handling dry bulk cargo marks a significant step in our drive toward modernization and dry bulk cargo capacity enhancement. I urge all stakeholders and trade partners to fully utilize this state-of-the-art facility to boost bulk cargo operations and support the growth of maritime trade through VOC Port.”