Paradip Port Achieves Historic 18.5-Metre Draft, Welcomes Fully Laden Capesize Vessels
Paradip: In a major boost to India’s maritime infrastructure, Paradip Port Authority has successfully achieved an 18.5-metre deep draft following the completion of a ₹352 crore capital dredging project, paving the way for the seamless entry of fully laden Capesize vessels into the port.
The landmark achievement marks a significant milestone in enhancing the port’s cargo-handling capabilities and strengthening its position as one of India’s most important maritime gateways.
The deeper draft will allow large bulk carriers to enter the port carrying maximum cargo loads, thereby reducing logistics costs and improving operational efficiency.
The dredging project was among seven infrastructure initiatives worth ₹427.80 crore inaugurated by Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
Other projects included enhanced connectivity infrastructure, advanced vessel traffic management systems, and natural gas pipeline facilities for residential quarters.
Port officials stated that the increased draft depth would enable the efficient handling of critical commodities such as coal, coking coal, and iron ore.
The move is expected to improve vessel turnaround times and attract larger ships to the eastern coast port.
In another major development, Paradip Port Authority signed concession agreements worth ₹1,580.36 crore for three berth mechanisation projects.
These include a 5 MTPA South Quay facility, an 8 MTPA multipurpose berth, and a 10 MTPA captive berth, aimed at boosting cargo handling capacity and operational efficiency.
The port has set an ambitious target of achieving 100 per cent berth mechanisation by 2030, up from the current level of approximately 80 per cent.
The achievement comes amid strong cargo performance.
During FY 2025-26, Paradip Port handled a record 156.45 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo, registering a growth of 4.02 per cent over the previous year.
The port emerged as India’s second-largest major port by cargo throughput and retained its status as the largest major port on the country’s east coast.
The operational benefits of the new draft capability were demonstrated when the port received the Capesize vessel MV Mineral Kwangyang, carrying over 152,700 metric tonnes of coking coal.
The successful handling of the vessel highlighted the port’s enhanced capacity to accommodate large bulk carriers.
With the latest infrastructure upgrades, Paradip Port Authority aims to further strengthen its role as a key logistics and trade hub, supporting India’s growing industrial and export requirements.
