VOC Port has received its first coastal clinker consignment under the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ambuja Cement, marking the beginning of a long-term cargo movement partnership. The MoU, signed on 19 November 2025 in Gujarat, commits to an annual coastal movement of 2,50,000 metric tonnes of clinker under the Minimum Guaranteed Tonnage-based Incentive Scheme.

As part of this commitment, the vessel MV Lima Trader berthed at NCB-II on 24 November 2025, carrying 56,440 metric tonnes of clinker from Sanghi Port in Gujarat. The shipment was handled by M/s Seaport Shipping as the vessel agent and Seaport Logistics as the stevedore. After unloading, the clinker will be transported by road to Ambuja Cement’s grinding unit at Mela Arasadi in Tuticorin, around 24 kilometres from the port, for conversion into cement.

Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, described the arrival of the vessel as a significant milestone in promoting sustainable and cost-effective coastal logistics. He said the initiative aligns with the Government of India’s emphasis on expanding coastal shipping to enhance efficiency, reduce logistics costs and lower carbon emissions. He also noted that several more clinker vessels under the MoU are expected to call at the port in the coming months, adding momentum to cargo handling volumes and strengthening collaboration between the port and the cement industry.

The VO Chidambaram Port Authority said in a statement that this development reinforces the port’s commitment to supporting bulk cargo movement through environmentally friendly coastal routes. The authority added that the partnership is expected to generate long-term value for both the port and Ambuja Cement while contributing to the region’s industrial ecosystem.

News source: PIB