Paradip Port Authority Reviews Western Dock Terminal Progress at JPPL Berth, Focuses on Mechanization and Cargo Efficiency

Summary

Paradip Port Authority (PPA) Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit reviewed the development and operational readiness of the Western Dock terminal at Jindal Paradip Port Limited (JPPL) in Paradip on 18 October 2026. The review focused on commissioning Phase I, which has a capacity of 12.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), achieving full berth mechanisation and improving rail and road connectivity for cargo evacuation. The project envisages a total dry bulk cargo handling capacity of 25 MTPA.

Article

PARADIP, 18 October 2026: Paradip Port Authority (PPA) Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, reviewed the operational readiness and infrastructure development of the Western Dock terminal at Jindal Paradip Port Limited (JPPL) berth, with a focus on commissioning and operationalizing the facility.

During the visit, Purohit assessed berth operations and held discussions with senior PPA officials and JPPL representatives, including Deputy CEO Sandeep Jaiswal. Key areas of discussion included improving cargo handling efficiency, achieving 100% berth mechanization, and strengthening rail and road connectivity to facilitate the movement of cargo from the terminal.

Western Dock Phase I targets 12.5 MTPA capacity.

The review covered progress on Phase I of the Western Dock project, which is designed to handle 12.5 million tonnes of cargo annually. The wider project envisages a dry bulk cargo handling capacity of 25 MTPA and is being developed under the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model.

The successful berthing of deep-draft Capesize vessels was also highlighted during the review. The development marks a step in expanding Paradip Port’s ability to accommodate large vessels and support bulk cargo operations.

Focus on multimodal connectivity and terminal productivity

Discussions also addressed sustainable port operations, compliance with safety standards, technology-driven logistics solutions and the integration of multimodal cargo evacuation systems.

Improved connectivity and mechanisation are intended to increase terminal productivity, reduce logistics bottlenecks and support the cargo requirements of industries and trade. Efficient rail and road links will be important for moving cargo from the terminal and supporting its planned handling capacity.

The review forms part of the ongoing development of Paradip Port’s infrastructure and operational capabilities. The Western Dock project is expected to expand the port’s dry bulk handling capacity and strengthen its role in maritime trade along India’s eastern coast.

FAQs

What is the capacity of Phase I of the Western Dock terminal at Paradip Port?

Phase I of the Western Dock project at the JPPL berth is designed to handle 12.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA).

What is the total planned capacity of the Western Dock project?

The project envisages an overall dry bulk cargo handling capacity of 25 MTPA.

Who reviewed the progress of the Western Dock project?

Paradip Port Authority Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, reviewed the project’s progress on 18 October 2026.

What are the key priorities for the Western Dock terminal?

The main priorities include commissioning Phase I, achieving 100% berth mechanisation, improving cargo handling efficiency, strengthening rail and road connectivity, maintaining safety standards and integrating multimodal cargo evacuation systems.

What is the significance of Capesize vessel berthing at the terminal?

The successful berthing of deep-draft Capesize vessels demonstrates the port’s capability to accommodate large vessels and support bulk cargo handling operations.