Historic Rise

Paradip Port became India’s top cargo-handling port in FY2024-25. What were the key highlights of this achievement?

Crossing the 150 MMT mark for the first time reflects our focus on capacity building. Over the past three years, Paradip Port recorded a 9 per cent CAGR, higher than the sector’s 6 per cent average. We also achieved the highest berth productivity of 34,303 MT per day, nearly double the national average, and handled almost one-third of India’s coastal cargo. With the highest rake-handling capacity, Paradip Port reaffirmed its leadership.

What is your cargo handling target for FY2025–26, and how do you plan to meet stakeholder expectations?

We have set a target of over 160 MMT for FY2025–26. Strategic initiatives include expanding coastal shipping and advancing digital transformation. New business measures such as frozen tariffs until 2026, reduced charges for incremental cargo, and rewards for berth performance are being introduced. Cargo flows are diversifying, with westward coal movement to Maharashtra and Gujarat now boosting coastal shipping.

How is Paradip Port leveraging technology to improve efficiency and ease of doing business?

We are implementing the Enterprise Business System (EBS), National Logistics Portal (NLP Marine), and Sparsh for integrated operations. Paradip Port currently processes the highest financial transactions on NLP-Marine among major ports. We are piloting India’s first AI-based yard and storage management system and finalizing a Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS) to streamline vessel movement.

Container throughput grew by 111 per cent year-on-year. How do you plan to sustain and scale this growth?

Our focus is on building a strong container ecosystem. The existing 5 MTPA container terminal under PPP has improved efficiency. We offer the lowest Vessel Related Charges (VRCs), with up to 75 per cent discounts for container vessels, and free scanning facilities. A Multimodal Logistics Park by CONCOR is operational. Global liners like MSC have started direct services, and we are developing a new container berth with 2 lakh TEU capacity under PPP, now at an advanced tendering stage.

What are the major infrastructure augmentation projects underway at Paradip Port?

The Western Dock Project (25 MTPA) will enable Cape-size vessels with an 18.5-metre draft and is targeted for Phase I completion by 2026. We are mechanizing four berths, developing four new ones, and building a dedicated 4 MTPA green berth for green hydrogen and ammonia exports. Connectivity is improving through a 2.4 km flyover-cum-road, contributions to the 8-laning of Paradip–Chandikhol NH-53, and expansion of rail sidings to handle 100+ rakes per day. Sustainability has become critical in port operations.

What ESG initiatives is Paradip Port implementing?

We are targeting 100 per cent mechanization by 2030 to curb emissions, supported by covered conveyors. A 10 MW solar plant is being developed to meet 60 per cent of electricity demand through renewables by 2026. Under the Green Tug Transition Program, hybrid and green tugs are being procured, and shore-to-ship power is being extended to cargo vessels. We also operate zero liquid discharge STPs and integrated waste management systems.

How important has stakeholder coordination been in Paradip Port’s progress, and how will this continue?

Multi-stakeholder coordination has been central. Fast-tracked clearances and synchronized planning have helped overcome bottlenecks. We are institutionalizing frameworks through digital platforms and participation in PM Gati Shakti. We are also preparing for India Maritime Week 2025 roadshows to showcase projects and investment opportunities.

Paradip Port recently signed significant MoUs with the Government of Odisha. What is their strategic importance?

The two MoUs worth `46,200 crores are for the development of Bahuda Major Port and a shipbuilding hub at Mahanadi Mouth. Bahuda is planned as a greenfield 150 MTPA major port with an estimated Rs 21,500 crore investment–poised to become India’s 14th major port. The shipbuilding and ship-repair complex, at about Rs 24,700 crore, creates a strategic manufacturing base on the east coast.

What are the next steps for these major projects?

Immediate steps are execution focused. We’re constituting joint working groups, moving to project structuring and SPV formation, and commissioning DPR and statutory studies. We will lock multi-modal connectivity under PM Gati Shakti, prepare land and waterfront master-planning, and design PPP and transaction frameworks to achieve early-stage works and attract private capital.