Kamarajar Port in Tamil Nadu has become India’s second major port with 18-metre draft capability, a development that strengthens the country’s maritime competitiveness. The upgrade is expected to help the port handle larger vessels and improve cargo efficiency.
Larger Ships, Higher Cargo Capacity
With the new operational draft, the port can now accommodate vessels carrying cargo parcels of up to 1,70,000 DWT. This makes it better suited for handling deep-draft ships, including larger bulk carriers that are important for India’s import and export trade.
Dredging Project Behind The Expansion
The increased draft capability has reportedly come after a dredging project estimated at around ₹440 crore. The investment reflects the port’s push to expand its infrastructure and support the movement of larger cargo volumes in a more efficient way.
Boost For Maritime Competitiveness
Officials said the upgrade will improve the port’s ability to serve trade flows and enhance India’s position in regional shipping. It also adds to the country’s port capacity at a time when shipping lines are increasingly looking for deeper, more efficient terminals to handle growing cargo demand.
