Paradip Port Authority (PPA) in Odisha has set a new record by achieving 100 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo throughput in the fastest time since the port’s inception. The milestone, reached on 27 November, marks the ninth consecutive year that the port has crossed the 100 MMT benchmark. With 100.15 MMT handled so far, PPA has recorded a 4.78 per cent year-on-year increase and achieved the feat 12 days earlier than in the previous fiscal. In FY 2024–25, the mark was reached on 9 December 2024, taking 253 days, compared with 241 days this year.

The port’s performance has been supported by faster operational processes, system upgrades and strong stakeholder cooperation. Growth in coastal thermal coal, container cargo, gypsum and flux, petroleum products and steel cargo has further strengthened Paradip Port’s position as an emerging coastal shipping hub. Coal, which accounts for about 45 per cent of the port’s total cargo, recorded a 3.76 per cent increase over the same period last year. Containerised cargo rose by 32 per cent, gypsum and flux by 24 per cent, steel cargo by 35 per cent and POL cargo by 31 per cent year-on-year.

PPA Chairman PL Haranadh expressed gratitude to Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal for his guidance and support, saying the achievement reflects the collective effort of officers, employees, user industries, stevedores, agents, trade unions and PPP operators. He also acknowledged the assistance of the Government of Odisha, Indian Railways, Customs and other authorities for enabling the port’s strong performance. Deputy Chairman T Venu Gopal, Advisor (Traffic) AK Bose and Traffic Manager G. Edison were present during the announcement.

With a continued emphasis on operational efficiency and sustained growth, PPA aims to end the fiscal year with its highest-ever cargo throughput.

News source: PIB