Ports Secretary reviews key operations, inaugurates new facilities at Paradip Port

Kumar also inspected iron ore loading operations aboard a vessel, focusing on loading mechanisms, safety procedures, and real-time coordination between marine and cargo teams.

November 17, 2025
8:50 am
ASL Narasimha

Secretary of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Vijay Kumar undertook a detailed review of operational, marine, and cargo-handling activities at the Paradip Port Authority (PPA) on Saturday, reaffirming the government’s focus on efficiency, sustainability, and digital transformation across major ports.

Kumar was welcomed by senior PPA officials and taken through several strategic zones critical to the port’s functioning. His visit began at the Command Control Centre at Gate 4, where he assessed real-time vessel monitoring systems, marine safety infrastructure, the Digital Access Control System, and other technology platforms that underpin seamless port operations.

At the Wet Basin, the secretary reviewed berth readiness, vessel traffic coordination, and key marine support systems. PPA Chairman P. L. Haranadh briefed him on ongoing initiatives to modernize operations, improve safety, and expand capacity to meet future cargo growth.

Kumar also inspected iron ore loading operations aboard a vessel, focusing on loading mechanisms, safety procedures, and real-time coordination between marine and cargo teams. During the visit, he inaugurated the Dust Suppression System at the Mechanized Coal Handling Plant (MCHP), underscoring PPA’s push for cleaner, safer handling of bulk cargo.

Later, at a review meeting with senior officers and stakeholders at the administrative building, discussions centred around improving port performance, strengthening logistics connectivity, and driving sustainable maritime development.

The secretary also inaugurated two major infrastructure additions —

the Integrated Gate No. 1 Complex, and
the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system for port sub-stations.

As part of his visit, Kumar inspected the Paradip Golf Course, where a newly developed hole has been added to promote sports and community engagement. A tree plantation drive was also organised to support environmental and green initiatives within the port township.