India’s major ports are enhancing their capabilities to accommodate larger vessels as part of a government initiative to transform the country into a regional transshipment hub. Shipping Secretary T.K. Ramachandran announced that while major ports have achieved a draft of 14 meters, ports like Kamarajar, Paradip, and Deendayal are progressing towards an 18-meter draft, making them suitable for Panamax and cape-size ships.
Historically, Indian ports have missed out on transshipment opportunities, with 75% of such cargo being routed through foreign ports like Colombo and Singapore. The development of the Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra is a strategic move, boasting a natural draft of 20 meters and a planned capacity of 23 million TEUs, which will position it among the top 10 global container ports.
Ramachandran also noted the creation of the Galathea Bay Transshipment Port in Great Nicobar, aimed at handling over 16 million TEUs annually. Additional improvements include the Outer Harbour Container Terminal at VO Chidambaranar Port, with a 4 million TEUs capacity, and Tuna Tekra Terminal at Deendayal Port, geared for 2.19 million TEUs, driving India toward becoming a preferred transshipment destination.
