₹235-Crore Port Modernisation Projects Launched at Chennai and Kamarajar Ports

The Union government has taken another significant step towards strengthening India’s maritime infrastructure with the launch of port modernisation projects worth ₹235 crore at Chennai Port and Kamarajar Port in Tamil Nadu. The projects were inaugurated by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, reinforcing the Centre’s focus on safer, smarter and more efficient ports.

At Chennai Port, multiple infrastructure and safety-related works were unveiled. These include the repair of a coastal revetment covering nearly 850 metres, aimed at protecting port assets from erosion and rough sea conditions. A new firefighting pump house has been commissioned at the Oil Dock area at a cost of about ₹43 crore, significantly strengthening emergency preparedness. The port hospital has also been modernised with an investment of roughly ₹8 crore, improving healthcare facilities for port employees and workers.

A key highlight of the Chennai Port upgrade is the introduction of a new Enterprise Business System. Built on an SAP-based platform, the ₹45-crore digital system integrates finance, human resources, procurement and core port operations. Officials said this will enhance transparency, compliance and decision-making while reducing manual processes and operational delays.

Modernisation initiatives were also rolled out at Kamarajar Port, with a focus on improving safety standards, cargo handling efficiency and overall resilience of port infrastructure. Together, the upgrades at both ports are expected to support faster turnaround times and smoother logistics operations.

Speaking at the launch, Sonowal said the projects align with the Centre’s broader vision of improving coastal safety and enhancing ease of doing business. He added that technology-driven systems and robust safety infrastructure are critical as Indian ports handle increasing cargo volumes.

The latest investments are part of a wider national push to modernise ports under programmes such as Sagarmala, positioning India as a competitive maritime and logistics hub. For Tamil Nadu, the projects are expected to strengthen trade flows, support industrial growth and create long-term economic benefits linked to port-led development.