Kamarajar Port Investing ₹325 Crore to Become Cape Compliant

The Kamarajar port in North Chennai is set to become Cape compliant by investing ₹325 crore in a dredging project this fiscal year. This project will increase the port’s draft to 18m from the current 16m, allowing it to handle large Capesize ships. The Kamarajar Port Ltd (KPL) has issued a global tender for capital dredging of the harbour basin and deepening of the approach channels to accommodate these large vessels.

Capesize ships are the largest dry cargo ships, too big to transit through the Suez or Panama Canals, having draft requirements of 18m and the ability to carry up to 1.70 lakh tonnes of cargo. The port’s growth plans include upgrading to handle these large vessels, ensuring its competitiveness in the maritime industry. With a cargo handling capacity of 57.44 million tonnes and plans for new coal berths and liquid terminals, the Kamarajar port is gearing up for future expansion.

The development of additional berths and terminals, especially for coal and liquid cargo, is a key focus for the port. By increasing capacity and upgrading facilities to accommodate Capesize vessels, the port aims to improve its cargo handling capabilities. With a reported increase in cargo handling and operating income, the Kamarajar port is on track for further growth and development in the coming years.

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