NTECL invites bids for coal logistics and port handling at Dhamra and Paradip

NTPC Tamilnadu Energy Company Ltd (NTECL) has invited bids through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) for a custom service contract covering coal logistics from mines to ports, including rail transportation and port handling. The bid is scheduled to close on October 22, 2026.

Scope of work

The contract covers coordination and supervision of coal loading at mines operated by Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd (MCL), Central Coalfields Ltd (CCL) and Eastern Coalfields Ltd (ECL).

The selected contractor will also be responsible for:

• Transportation of coal through Indian Railways
• Delivery of coal to Dhamra Port and Paradip Port
• Associated coal handling operations at Paradip Port

The coal will be supplied to NTECL’s Vallur Thermal Power Project near Chennai. NTECL is a joint venture between NTPC and Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation, with the Vallur plant serving as the consignee.

Key bid terms

The bid, referenced as GEM/2026/B/8080539, was issued on October 1, 2026, by NTECL, Chennai, under the Ministry of Power.

The contract will run for two years and one day. Bidders must have a minimum average annual turnover of Rs 2,935 lakh over the preceding three financial years. An earnest money deposit of Rs 1 crore is required, payable to NTECL.

The bid closes at 4:00 pm on October 22, with bids scheduled to open at 4:00 pm on October 23. Bid validity is 120 days from the closing date.

The procurement will follow a two-packet system covering technical and financial bids, with evaluation based on the total contract value.

Eligibility and procurement conditions

Micro and small enterprises will receive purchase preference of up to L1 plus 15%, while compliance with Make in India requirements is mandatory.

No performance bank guarantee is required under the tender. Bidders must meet the specified turnover and prior experience requirements.

Implications for ports and logistics

The tender represents a significant bulk cargo logistics opportunity involving two major Odisha ports. The coal is expected to move by rail from the source mines to Dhamra and Paradip before being handled for onward coastal transportation to Tamil Nadu.

The integrated scope covering mine coordination, rail movement and port operations highlights the role of Dhamra and Paradip in supporting the fuel supply chain for NTECL’s Vallur power project.