VOC Port Registers 212% Growth in Construction Cargo Handling, Boosts Maldives Trade

V.O. Chidambaranar Port has achieved a remarkable milestone in the financial year 2025-26, registering a 212.87% growth in handling construction materials up to August 2025. The port managed 5,48,994 tonnes of construction cargo during this period, a significant jump from the 1,75,468 tonnes recorded during the same period in the previous fiscal year.

This surge highlights the port’s continued expansion and its strategic importance as a regional hub for bulk cargo trade. Annual handling of construction materials at VOC Port has been steadily rising, growing from 9.39 lakh tonnes in 2023-24 to 11.01 lakh tonnes in 2024-25. These figures underscore the port’s consistent investment in infrastructure and operational capabilities to accommodate larger cargo volumes efficiently.

A substantial portion of the construction materials handled at the port originates from its primary hinterland and is exported to the Maldives. This trade not only supports Maldives’ ongoing infrastructure development but also strengthens the port’s role in international logistics and regional trade connectivity.

Susanta Kumar Purohit, Chairperson of IRSEE, emphasized that the significant growth in construction material handling reflects VOC Port’s increasing reputation as a trusted gateway for bulk cargo. With ongoing infrastructure enhancements and expansion of port facilities, VOC Port is well-positioned to support regional infrastructure projects while catering to international trade demands.

The port’s strategic initiatives include upgrading cargo handling equipment, streamlining operational workflows, and fostering collaborations with key shipping partners. These measures have contributed to improved turnaround times, enhanced efficiency, and an overall increase in cargo throughput, making VOC Port a preferred choice for both domestic and overseas traders.

As the demand for construction materials continues to grow across South India and nearby maritime neighbors, VOC Port’s performance sets a benchmark for operational excellence. Its expanding role in facilitating trade with the Maldives further strengthens India’s regional trade connectivity, reinforcing the port’s position as a critical node in the maritime infrastructure network.