Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has inaugurated seven infrastructure projects worth ₹427.80 crore at Paradip Port Authority (PPA) in Odisha, aimed at enhancing the port’s capacity, connectivity, operational efficiency and sustainability. The developments also mark Paradip Port’s achievement of an 18.5-metre deep-draft capability, enabling it to handle fully laden Capesize vessels in its inner harbour.
The largest project among the initiatives is the ₹352-crore deep-draft enhancement, which is expected to improve economies of scale, reduce vessel turnaround time and lower logistics costs. Other projects inaugurated include a 500-metre, three-lane bridge worth ₹24.89 crore, a ₹20-crore piped natural gas (PNG) infrastructure project, a ₹15.50-crore advanced Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS), a ₹12.18-crore upgraded administrative office building and a ₹2.10-crore sports hostel.
The PNG project has also made Paradip the first major port in India to introduce PNG connectivity for its township residents. The initiative is aimed at providing a cleaner and continuous energy source while reducing household gas expenses, according to the minister. The new VTMIS, meanwhile, is expected to strengthen vessel traffic management and improve safety and operational efficiency at the port.
Alongside the project inaugurations, Sonowal witnessed the signing of concession agreements for three mechanisation projects worth ₹1,580.36 crore. The projects are part of Paradip Port’s plan to achieve 100 per cent berth mechanisation by 2030, compared with around 80 per cent at present. The planned mechanisation is expected to improve cargo-handling efficiency, reduce vessel turnaround times and support safer and cleaner port operations.
The minister also marked Paradip Port’s plantation of its one-millionth tree, highlighting the port’s focus on combining infrastructure expansion with environmental sustainability. The port has intensified its plantation activities in recent years, with nearly one lakh trees being planted annually over the past four years with participation from employees, stakeholders and local communities.
Sonowal said the expansion of Paradip Port is intended to create a wider economic multiplier for eastern India by strengthening maritime trade, logistics, industrial activity and employment. The latest investments are expected to further reinforce Paradip’s position as a key maritime gateway while supporting India’s broader push towards modern and globally competitive port infrastructure.