Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate Coal Berth–3 at Kamarajar Port on Sunday and lay the foundation stone for the modernisation of an ageing cargo berth. The two projects, with a combined investment of Rs. 4.82 bn, are intended to strengthen Tamil Nadu’s energy security, improve maritime logistics and support industrial activity.

The new Coal Berth–3, developed at a cost of Rs. 2.61 bn, will have an annual handling capacity of 9 mn t. It will be operated on a captive basis by Tamil Nadu Power Generation Corporation (TNPGCL), serving the state utility’s requirements rather than third-party cargo. The berth is designed to handle Capesize vessels, the largest class of dry-bulk carriers, with drafts of up to 18 metres.

The facility will have two ship unloaders, each capable of handling 2,000 t an hour. A conveyor system with a capacity of 4,000 t an hour will transport coal directly to the North Chennai thermal power plants.

General Cargo Berth–1 (GCB–1), which currently has an annual capacity of 3 mn t, will be upgraded and mechanised under a public-private partnership. The estimated investment is Rs. 2.21 bn. The work is intended to accelerate cargo handling, increase throughput, expand the range of commodities handled and reduce the time vessels remain alongside the berth.

Kamarajar Port said the GCB–1 project would encourage private-sector participation and improve the port’s logistics efficiency and competitiveness. The port authority also said the two developments would reinforce its role in Tamil Nadu’s energy network and maritime logistics. The coal berth is intended to provide a dedicated route for fuel supplies, while the cargo berth upgrade is designed to support more efficient commercial operations. The projects are aligned with the government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 development vision, according to the release.