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In a move set to strengthen India’s maritime infrastructure, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, inaugurated a suite of essential projects at Chennai Port Authority (ChPA) and Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) today. This Rs. 187.33 crore investment reflects the Ministry’s commitment to advancing infrastructure, trade efficiency, and sustainable practices within India’s port network.

During the event, Minister Sonowal emphasized the transformative impact of these projects on India’s global trade standing and underscored the Ministry’s dedication to modernization and sustainability. “These projects affirm our commitment to robust maritime infrastructure and sustainability. We are laying the foundation for seamless operations that meet global trade demands while upholding environmental responsibility,” he stated.

The inauguration included several high-impact initiatives:

1. EXIM Godowns

With a project cost of Rs. 73.91 crore, four new EXIM godowns covering 18,000 sq. meters have been constructed at Chennai Port. These storage facilities, funded under the Sagarmala scheme, provide dedicated, clean spaces for sensitive cargo, supporting India’s growing trade needs. These godowns offer advanced storage solutions for agricultural and food products, aligning with the country’s vision to expand its port storage capacity.

2. Coastal Road Development

A new concrete coastal road, measuring 350 meters in length and 12 meters in width, was also inaugurated to improve cargo and container movement. Built for Rs. 4 crore, this road enhances accessibility and reduces dust pollution, contributing to cleaner port operations.

3. Doubling Rail Connectivity at KPL

Sonowal unveiled the rail connectivity expansion project at KPL, amounting to Rs. 88.91 crore. This initiative adds 2.65 km of railway line, featuring three new bridges over the Kosasthalai River and Buckingham Canal. By doubling the rail handling capacity to 44 rakes per day, this development supports faster, safer cargo movement, addressing the growing demand for EXIM trade.

4. Shore Power Supply for Coal Vessels

To further the Ministry’s green initiatives, a shore power supply facility for coal vessels at KPL was inaugurated. This Rs. 20.51 crore project allows vessels at berths CB1 and CB2 to operate without diesel engines, significantly cutting emissions and supporting cleaner, cost-efficient operations in line with India’s Green Port Guidelines.

The event concluded with the presentation of the IAPH Sustainability Award report and a recognition of KPL’s CSR contributions for 2022-23. In a gesture honouring India’s heritage, Sonowal also renamed the ‘Clive Battery Quarters as ‘Ramanujan Quarters’ under the Panch Pran initiative, reinforcing the Ministry’s focus on inclusivity.

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