Paradip Port aims complete mechanisation by 2030

Paradip Port will develop three new berths, mechanise four existing ones, and establish one berth solely for green hydrogen, officials aware of the plans told ET. These projects are part of the port’s strategy to become fully mechanized by 2030. This port aims to exceed 400 MTPA handling capacity, from presently 289 MTPA, by 2030. The long-term target is to raise its capacity to 500 MTPA by 2047.

“The mechanization of berths will require an investment of over Rs 2500 crore and will enhance operational efficiency, reduce handling times,” a senior official told ET while adding that this will improve overall productivity at the port.

The Port also plans to develop an exclusive green hydrogen and green ammonia berth for its export and bunkering with a capacity of 5 million tonnes per annum (MPTA). “This will be awarded by 2026 at a cost of Rs 325 crore,” the official quoted above said.

Paradip Port has already signed agreements with four investors of Green Hydrogen and Green ammonia plants to set up plants in the nearby region. These will require a total investment of Rs 50,800 crore. “With this, Paradip Port is geared up to accommodate the development of ecosystem to become a hub for green hydrogen and ammonia handling in the region,” the official said.

The port is already executing capacity expansion through the 25 MTPA Western Dock project. This involves the creation of a new dock equipped with modern infrastructure and handling facilities to accommodate various types of cargo.

Additionally, it includes deepening the inner harbour to accommodate Cape vessels with drafts of up to 18 meters. “The introduction of Cape vessels will enable us to achieve economies of scale and significantly reduce transportation costs per unit of cargo,” the official said while adding that the port will achieve over 300 MTPA handling capacity by 2027.

Paradip Port recorded the highest overall cargo throughput among central government administered ports by handling 145.38 million tonnes (MT) cargo in fiscal 2023-24. This stood 7.4% higher than Paradip Port’s throughput during the preceding financial year. It also recorded the highest coastal shipping traffic at 59.19 MT.

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