Paradip Port, Odisha’s only major port, has retained its No. 1 position in cargo handling for the second consecutive year, Chairman P.L. Haranadh announced during the 79th Independence Day celebrations. He credited the achievement to the resilience of port employees and strategic efforts in a challenging market.
The eastern coast port has emerged as a key driver of India’s maritime growth, winning multiple accolades, including the No. 1 Sagar Anklan certificate for bulk cargo handling and the “Major Port of the Year – Non-Containerised Cargo” award.
By the end of July, Paradip Port Authority (PPA) had handled a record 50 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo — the fastest in its history. The port has also made strides in container trade, recording its first-ever EXIM container handling in FY 2024-25. Services by MSC and RCL, along with CONCOR’s new multimodal logistics park, are positioning Paradip as a rising container gateway for eastern India. The PPA is also collaborating with the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) to boost seafood exports from Odisha.
Paradip aims to raise its capacity to 500 MMTPA by 2047. The 25 MMTPA Western Dock Project, progressing ahead of schedule, will allow Capesize vessel calls and lower logistics costs. Infrastructure modernization is underway, with 100% mechanization targeted by 2030. Recent initiatives include an AI-based harbour management system, a new command and control centre, and plans for a next-generation Vessel Traffic Management and Information System.
Aligned with India’s net-zero goals, Paradip Port is committed to becoming a net-zero port by 2050. A green hydrogen/ammonia export terminal worth over ₹50,800 crore is under development, along with shore-to-ship power systems, the port’s first green tug under the Green Tug Transition Program, and a 10 MW solar power plant aimed at raising renewable energy share to 60%.
On the welfare front, PPA has invested in township water security with a new reservoir, treatment plant, and a ₹100 crore pipeline project. Employee benefits have been expanded, including new insurance schemes and a retirement medical trust for staff and pensioners. Mandatory safety training for contractual labourers will be introduced from January 2026.
Later, Chairman Haranadh inaugurated a state-of-the-art command and control centre at Gate No. 4 to strengthen surveillance and port security.
