Kamarajar Port to Expand with Rs 582-Crore Projects Boosting Tamil Nadu’s Infrastructure

Kamarajar Port Unveils Rs 582-Crore Development Projects in Tamil Nadu

Kamarajar Port in Ennore, Tamil Nadu, is set for a significant transformation. On December 7, 2024, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, laid the foundation stones for three projects worth Rs 582 crore. These initiatives aim to enhance the port’s capacity and efficiency while supporting Tamil Nadu’s industrial growth.

Key Projects Announced

The largest investment of Rs 520 crore is allocated to Capital Dredging Phase-VI. This project will deepen the port’s berth to an 18-meter draft from the current 16 meters. This change will allow the port to handle larger vessels, boosting its cargo capacity.

A 1 MLD Sea Water Reverse Osmosis Desalination Plant is the second project, with an investment of Rs 37 crore. It will ensure a sustainable water supply for port operations. The third project, costing Rs 25 crore, is an Integrated Command and Control Centre designed to centralize operations and improve efficiency.

Supporting Tamil Nadu’s Industrial Growth

These projects align with Tamil Nadu’s industrial expansion plans. The state government, in collaboration with private partners, is working on several large-scale initiatives. These include a 1,880 MW LNG power project, a petrochemical park, and a naphtha cracker plant. The expanded port infrastructure will play a key role in supporting these ventures.

Growth Journey of Kamarajar Port

Commissioned on February 1, 2001, Kamarajar Port began operations with two berths for handling thermal coal. It now operates nine berths, handling 57.44 million tonnes (MT) of cargo annually. The port’s master plan targets an increase to 27 berths with a capacity of 254.52 MT by 2047.

Enhancing Efficiency and Sustainability

The new projects aim to modernize the port to meet increasing demand. Deepening the berth will attract global trade vessels, while the desalination plant addresses water challenges sustainably. The integrated command and control center will improve coordination and operational management.

These developments are set to make Kamarajar Port a crucial player in Tamil Nadu’s economic progress and India’s maritime sector.