Kandla Port has overtaken Paradip to reclaim the top position among major Indian ports after handling 160.11 million tonnes (mn t) of cargo in financial year 2026. The shift marks a return to the highest cargo throughput for the port, which regained precedence after a period in which Paradip led totals. Authorities attributed the rise to sustained throughput at key berths and steady traffic in energy and bulk commodities including dry and liquid bulk.

Port officials indicated that container and bulk handling facilities sustained higher utilisation during the year, supporting overall growth without disclosing detailed segmental figures. Improved hinterland connectivity and incremental operational efficiencies were reported as contributing factors. Stakeholders noted that streamlined berthing and faster turnaround helped absorb seasonal demand and improve supply chain reliability. Operators also highlighted ongoing investments in mechanisation and digital systems to reduce dwell time and improve cargo visibility.

The change in ranking is likely to influence freight flows and investment priorities across the western and eastern corridors, with shippers revisiting routing decisions to optimise cost and time. Terminal operators signalled plans to continue enhancing draft and berth capacity while coordinating with rail and road agencies to ease last mile movements. Analysts noted that consistent performance at major ports is critical for maintaining import and export competitiveness. The development could have wider implications for regional trade dynamics and port competition over the medium term.

The outcome emphasises the strategic role of port infrastructure in supporting trade growth and resilience in logistics networks. Policymakers and port authorities are expected to monitor throughput trends to prioritise capacity additions and regulatory support. Market participants suggested that sustained focus on operational discipline will be necessary to preserve gains and meet future cargo demand. Industry sources said coordinated planning between central and state agencies would be key to sustaining throughput gains.