Five Firms Show Interest in Kamarajar Port Bulk Terminal Projects Under PPP Model

Five companies, including global infrastructure and terminal operators, have expressed interest in developing new bulk terminal facilities at Kamarajar Port in North Chennai under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. The proposed investment is expected to strengthen the port’s dry bulk cargo handling capabilities while supporting the growing logistics and industrial ecosystem in Tamil Nadu.

According to industry sources, Kamarajar Port Ltd (KPL) recently invited Expressions of Interest (EoI) from investors, developers and terminal operators across the world to participate in the project. The initiative will be implemented under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model, enabling private sector participation in developing modern port infrastructure.

The proposed expansion includes the construction of two fully mechanised bulk cargo berths, each measuring 425 metres in length. These berths are being designed to accommodate cape-size vessels with a deadweight tonnage ranging between 1.5 lakh and 1.8 lakh tonnes, significantly increasing the port’s ability to handle larger cargo volumes efficiently.

Once completed, the new terminals are expected to improve operational efficiency, reduce vessel turnaround time and enhance the movement of dry bulk commodities such as coal, limestone, fertilisers, minerals and other industrial raw materials. The project is also expected to support industries across Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states by providing improved logistics connectivity and higher cargo handling capacity.

Kamarajar Port has emerged as one of India’s key ports for bulk cargo and automobile exports. Its strategic location along the North Chennai coast, combined with excellent road and rail connectivity, makes it an important gateway for domestic and international trade.

The strong response from both domestic and global companies reflects growing investor confidence in India’s port infrastructure sector and the government’s continued focus on expanding capacity through PPP-based projects. The proposed bulk terminal development is expected to play an important role in supporting industrial growth, improving supply chain efficiency and strengthening the country’s maritime logistics network over the coming years.