Paradip: Paradip Port Authority (PPA) marked a historic achievement in the first month of 2024 by achieving the highest-ever monthly cargo throughput in the history of all Major Ports in India. The remarkable milestone reached 14.32 Million Metric Tons (MMT), surpassing the previous record of 13.5 MMT set in March 2023. Shri P.L. Haranadh, Chairman of PPA, applauded the dedication and perseverance of Team PPA for this outstanding performance.
Expressing his gratitude, Shri Haranadh acknowledged the leadership and guidance of Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal Ji, which played a pivotal role in achieving this milestone. In a symbolic gesture, Shri Haranadh conducted a cake-cutting ceremony in the presence of Shri Nilabhra Dasgupata, Dy. Chairman, and other Heads of Departments.
The New Year brings auspicious tidings for Paradip Port, as it is on track to set an all-time record cargo handling of over 145 MMT in the current fiscal year. This achievement is poised to make Paradip Port the premier port in the country for the first time since its inception, in terms of handling cargo volume.
The cargo volume handled by PPA in the current fiscal year until January stands at 119.85 MMT, exhibiting a stellar growth of 9.67% compared to the corresponding period in the previous fiscal year (109.28 MMT). Coal handling, constituting 44.49% of the total cargo volume, amounts to 53.32 MMT. Notably, Iron Ore and Pellet cargo have seen a remarkable growth of 59.42%, totaling 21.84 MMT.
The Port also achieved a record number of 738 shipping movements with pilots in January 2024, surpassing the previous record of 639 movements in December 2023. Key Performance Parameters also showed significant improvement, with berth productivity reaching 32612 MT per day per ship, the highest among all Major Ports in the country. Pre-Berthing Detention reduced to 1.20 hrs from 1.78 hrs during the corresponding period of the previous year.
Paradip Port is emerging as a coastal shipping hub, marking history by initiating coastal shipping of thermal coal to the west coast, specifically to Maharashtra-based Power Plants. The Port plans to expand coastal shipping of thermal coal to other regions on the west coast, further solidifying its position as a crucial player in the maritime industry.
The Port’s commitment to operational excellence and sustainable marketing strategies has strengthened its ties with Port Users, paving the way for more accomplishments in the future. Paradip Port Authority’s dedication to achieving new heights in cargo handling and operational efficiency positions it as a key contributor to the industry’s evolving needs.