Trichy Dry Port Moves Ahead as Tamil Nadu Shortlists Sites for Multimodal Logistics Hub

Summary

Tamil Nadu has begun identifying land for a multimodal logistics hub and dry port in Tiruchirappalli, after the Centre and the state gave in-principle approval. TIDCO is preparing a detailed project report for the facility, which aims to cut logistics costs for exporters across central Tamil Nadu and link the region to six seaports in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Article

Tiruchirappalli: Plans for a Trichy dry port are moving forward, with the Tamil Nadu government shortlisting sites for a multimodal logistics hub (MMLH) to serve exporters and industries across central Tamil Nadu.

What has been approved so far?

Both the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government have given in-principle approval for the dry port. According to Tiruchirappalli MP Durai Vaiko, the state’s approval was conveyed in an August 24 letter from Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

In the letter, the Chief Minister said the state had taken a policy decision to set up the logistics hub and that the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) would soon begin a detailed study. Vaiko said the Finance Ministry has assured that it will move quickly once the state finalises its proposal.

The Chief Minister later announced in the State Assembly that the government would carry out a detailed study on the facility, following demands from local industry and the MP. TIDCO has been tasked with preparing the Detailed Project Report (DPR).

Where could the hub be located?

Revenue officials are searching for 15 to 20 acres, preferably along national highways for better connectivity. Two sites have been shortlisted: the SIPCOT industrial park near Manapparai on the Tiruchi-Dindigul Highway, and a site at Tiruverumbur. Land at Panjapur on the Tiruchi-Madurai Highway is also being considered.

Earlier reports indicated that while at least 20 acres would be needed, up to 100 acres could be acquired if available to allow for future expansion.

What facilities will the dry port offer?

The proposed hub is expected to include container handling, warehousing, cold-chain and temperature-controlled storage, cargo terminals, consolidation and distribution centres, and customs clearance. A truck terminal is also planned.

The facility is expected to reduce transport and cargo-handling costs while improving links with major gateways. Proposed port connectivity covers Chennai, Kamarajar, Kattupalli and V.O. Chidambaranar ports in Tamil Nadu, and Cochin and Vizhinjam ports in Kerala.

Who will benefit?

Beyond Tiruchy, the dry port is expected to support industries and exporters in Karur, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Pudukkottai and Thanjavur districts. The government also expects it to attract new industrial investment and create jobs.

N. Kanagasabapathy, President of the Export Import Federation Trichy, said the federation has been pursuing the dry port since 2019. He estimated that the region generates more than 50 containers of export cargo a month.

Earlier this year, Vaiko told Union Ports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal that exporters face high costs and delays from moving about 50 containers a month by road to distant harbours. He cited the Tirupur dry port as an example of how such a facility had helped the Coimbatore-Tirupur region.

Why was the project delayed?

According to Vaiko, the dry port had been held up for years because the region was classified as a “Red Zone” due to its proximity to several ports.

How does it fit with wider logistics developments?

The project comes as southern India’s port and logistics network expands. Vizhinjam Port in Kerala, one of the gateways proposed for connection to the Trichy hub, began EXIM operations on August 18. Trichy Airport has also started domestic air cargo services, adding another freight option for time-sensitive shipments from the region.

What happens next?

The next steps are completion of TIDCO’s DPR and final site selection. Once the state submits a firm proposal, the Centre is expected to take up execution. No cost estimate or timeline has been announced yet.

FAQs

Has the Trichy dry port been approved?

Yes. Both the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government have given in-principle approval, and TIDCO is preparing the detailed project report.

Where will the Trichy dry port be built?

The final site is not yet decided. SIPCOT near Manapparai and a site at Tiruverumbur have been shortlisted, and Panjapur is also under consideration.

How much land is needed?

Officials are seeking 15 to 20 acres along national highways. Earlier reports said up to 100 acres could be acquired if available.

Which ports will the hub connect to?

Proposed connectivity covers Chennai, Kamarajar, Kattupalli and V.O. Chidambaranar ports in Tamil Nadu, and Cochin and Vizhinjam ports in Kerala.

Which districts will benefit?

Tiruchy, Karur, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Pudukkottai and Thanjavur are expected to benefit.