Jindal Steel has commenced commercial operations at the first phase of its Western Dock project at Paradip Port in Odisha, adding 12.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of cargo-handling capacity.
Operations began on October 15 through Jindal Paradip Port Limited (JPPL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Jindal Steel developing the terminal under a build-operate-transfer (BOT) concession with Paradip Port Authority. The company received the Phase I completion certificate on October 12, four days ahead of the contractual deadline.
The Western Dock project is being developed in two phases, each with a planned capacity of 12.5 MTPA. Once both phases are operational, the facility will handle up to 25 million tonnes of cargo annually. Construction of the second phase is progressing alongside operations at the newly commissioned terminal.
The total project cost for both phases is estimated at ₹3,393 crore. Jindal Steel has invested ₹258.25 crore in equity, while the project is being financed through debt and equity.
The terminal is designed to handle dry-bulk and break-bulk cargo, including coal, limestone and steel-related materials. It is expected to provide Jindal Steel with dedicated, long-term access to port infrastructure, supporting the movement of raw materials and finished products for its operations in eastern India.
Approved as a public-private partnership project, the Western Dock development is intended to strengthen Paradip Port’s cargo-handling capabilities and improve the movement of bulk commodities. The facility is also designed to accommodate Capesize vessels, supporting the port’s role in serving industrial activity across the region.