Paradip: Paradip Port Authority (PPA) has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the highest cargo handling major port in India, surpassing Deendayal Port, Kandla. The port’s remarkable journey reached new heights with a record-breaking achievement of clocking an incredible 145.38 million metric tonnes (MMT) cargo throughput in the fiscal year 2023-24.
This significant accomplishment marks the first time in its 56-year history of operation that Paradip Port has exceeded previous records set by Deendayal Port. Additionally, the port recorded a notable growth of 10.02 million metric tonnes (7.4%) of traffic on a year-on-year basis.
During the financial year, Paradip Port achieved its highest-ever coastal shipping traffic of 59.19 million metric tonnes, showcasing a growth of 1.30% over the previous year. Furthermore, the port’s thermal coal coastal shipping reached 43.97 million metric tonnes, indicating a growth of 4.02% compared to the previous year.
Paradip Port’s berth productivity saw a significant improvement, reaching 33,014 metric tonnes from 31,050 metric tonnes in the previous financial year, registering a growth of 6.33%. The port’s berth productivity is now the highest among all ports in the country.
In terms of operational performance, Paradip Port handled 21,665 rakes, marking a growth of 7.65% over the previous financial year, and managed 2,710 ships, representing an increase of 13.82%.
The port’s success in cargo handling can be attributed to various system improvement measures implemented during the financial year. Notable initiatives include optimizing operations at the mechanized coal-handling plant to enhance thermal coal handling and enabling the handling of fully-laden cape vessels.
Moreover, Paradip Port has frozen its tariff for cargo handling at the 2022 level for the next three years as part of its business development initiatives, making it the most cost-effective port in the country.
In terms of financial performance, Paradip Port reported impressive results for the fiscal year 2023-24. Operating revenue crossed Rs. 2,300 crores, reflecting a growth of 14.30%, while operating surplus and net surplus both exhibited significant increases over the previous year.
Looking ahead, Paradip Port is poised to further enhance its capacity and infrastructure. With a current rated capacity of 289 million metric tonnes, the port aims to surpass the 300 million metric tonnes capacity mark within the next three years with the commissioning of the Western Dock project.
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