The Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) has invited domestic and international bids for developing the Viksit Bharat Mumbai Marina, a full-service marina and integrated waterfront project at Victoria Dock in Mumbai. Estimated to cost ₹922.67 crore, the project aims to strengthen maritime tourism, yacht services and waterfront infrastructure while creating new opportunities for port-linked commercial activities. The project will be implemented under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model, with a concession period of 45 years. The proposed marina will cover a protected water area of 37.3 hectares and accommodate 604 yachts at full development, including 424 berths in the first phase. Mumbai Port Authority has already commenced marine works, including a piled breakwater with an approximately 150-metre approach trestle, six piled service platforms, floating pontoons and gangways for around 424 berths, along with capital dredging. Environmental and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearances have also been secured for the entire project area. The selected concessionaire will develop the landside infrastructure, expand berthing capacity beyond the first phase, and operate and maintain the marina throughout the concession period before transferring the assets to the port authority. Planned facilities include a marina terminal building, an international-standard sailing school, a yacht club, a yacht repair yard at Haji Bunder, dry-stack storage and a fuel station. The development will also feature a five-star hotel, tourism business centre, food and beverage outlets, retail zones, and dedicated space for boat shows and events. The tender follows a single-stage, two-envelope electronic bidding process. Bidders will be evaluated on the percentage of gross revenue they propose to share with Mumbai Port Authority, with the highest revenue-share offer determining the preferred bidder. Companies can participate individually or as part of a consortium comprising up to four members. The deadline for pre-bid queries is 28 October 2026, with pre-bid meetings scheduled for 30 October and 25 November. The final date for submitting bids is 15 December 2026. The marina forms part of Mumbai Port Authority’s broader strategy to expand cruise tourism, harbour services and waterfront development, complementing initiatives such as the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal and the city's water taxi network. The project is expected to connect Mumbai’s maritime heritage with sailing, yacht services, hospitality and tourism while retaining port safety and operational requirements as key priorities. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Global container freight rates have surged 130% since February 2026, as renewed tensions in the Middle East disrupt shipping routes and increase uncertainty across international trade. The sharp rise in ocean freight costs comes even as India’s container-based export-import trade continues to record strong growth, according to a report by financial services firm Jefferies. According to the report, global container freight rates have climbed from approximately US$2,000–2,500 in February to around US$4,000–4,500 in October 2026. The increase reverses the downward trend witnessed through much of 2025 and early 2026, when an improved demand-supply balance helped ease shipping costs following elevated rates in 2024. The latest surge highlights the vulnerability of global supply chains to geopolitical developments and changes in maritime operations. Higher freight rates can put additional pressure on exporters, importers, freight forwarders and manufacturers by increasing transportation costs and complicating shipment planning. Jefferies identified the potential return of shipping lines to the Suez Canal as a key factor to monitor. Any change in vessel routing could influence transit times, available shipping capacity and freight pricing, depending on security conditions and operational decisions. Despite the rise in global freight rates, India’s containerisable export-import trade recorded a 23% year-on-year increase in value in September 2026. Exports grew 22%, while imports increased 23%, according to the report. Exports to the United States rose 48% year-on-year during the month. However, shipments to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia declined by 12–15%, reflecting differing trade trends across key markets. India’s port performance was also mixed. Cargo volumes at major ports increased 13% year-on-year in September, while non-major ports registered a 1% decline. Among non-major ports, Gujarat recorded 3% growth, while ports in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu reported increases of 6–7%. Ports along the eastern coast experienced a sharper decline in volumes. With geopolitical uncertainty continuing to influence maritime operations, developments in West Asia and the possible return of shipping lines to the Suez Canal will remain important indicators for global freight markets. Changes in routing and shipping capacity could shape transportation costs in the coming months, making freight-rate volatility a critical consideration for businesses managing international supply chains. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, recorded 34.75 million tonnes of cargo traffic in the first half of FY2026–27, supported by mechanised operations, private terminal participation, digital initiatives and planned infrastructure upgrades. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP), Kolkata, handled 34.75 million tonnes (MT) of cargo during the first half of the 2026–27 financial year, registering an increase of 1.34 MT compared with the corresponding period last year. The performance represents year-on-year growth of approximately 4 per cent. The port, which operates through the Kolkata Dock System (KDS) and Haldia Dock Complex (HDC), has set a cargo handling target of 74 MT for the full financial year. Infrastructure modernisation and measures to improve operational efficiency are expected to play an important role in achieving this goal. Mechanised Berths and PPP Operations Support Growth SMP Kolkata Chairman Rathindra Raman attributed the increase in cargo volumes to infrastructure improvements, the development of new berths and jetties, greater participation by public-private partnership (PPP) operators, digital technology adoption and enhanced marketing initiatives. The port has expanded the use of mechanised berths to accelerate cargo handling while reducing dependence on manual operations. It has also increased the utilisation of PPP-operated berths and introduced floating cranes at anchorages to facilitate cargo handling from larger vessels. These measures are intended to improve operational productivity, strengthen cargo-handling capacity and support the port's efforts to attract additional traffic. Digitalisation and Incentives to Attract Cargo Alongside infrastructure development, SMP Kolkata is focusing on digitalisation and commercial incentives to improve its competitiveness. Under its ‘One Port, One Process’ initiative, the port has digitised documentation procedures to simplify operational workflows and improve ease of doing business for port users. It has also introduced promotional rebates on vessel-related and cargo-related charges to encourage additional traffic and attract new business. In another initiative, the port is promoting the development of light industries under the PPP model. Potential activities include agricultural, marine, tea and apparel processing near port facilities. These industries could generate additional cargo volumes while strengthening connections between the port and its hinterland. Capital Dredging Study to Explore Greater Vessel Access Improving navigational access remains another priority for SMP Kolkata. The port has engaged the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study on capital dredging to assess options for increasing channel depth. Enhanced channel depth could improve access for vessels with greater draught requirements, subject to the findings of the study and the feasibility of implementing the proposed works. Better navigability could also help support future cargo growth and improve operational flexibility. The outcome of the feasibility assessment will be important in determining the scope and potential benefits of any subsequent dredging programme. Proposed Hooghly Twin Tunnel to Improve Connectivity SMP Kolkata is also planning a twin tunnel beneath the Hooghly River to connect port facilities with national highways. The proposed infrastructure is intended to provide an alternative route for cargo traffic, helping bypass urban traffic restrictions and congestion. Improved road connectivity could streamline cargo evacuation, reduce delays in inland transportation and strengthen links between the port and its hinterland. The project's eventual impact will depend on its planning, implementation and integration with the surrounding transport network. Focus on Sustainable Cargo Growth With cargo volumes rising by approximately 4 per cent in H1 FY27, SMP Kolkata is pursuing a combination of operational improvements, private-sector participation, digital processes and infrastructure planning to support its annual target of 74 MT. Mechanised cargo handling, improved terminal utilisation and simplified documentation could help strengthen productivity, while dredging assessments and proposed transport links may address longer-term navigational and connectivity constraints. As trade and logistics requirements continue to evolve, the port's ability to expand capacity, attract new cargo and improve cargo evacuation will be central to sustaining growth during FY2026–27 and beyond. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates  

Maersk’s Singapore-flagged container vessel Maersk Chattogram is undergoing its first planned drydocking in India at L&T Shipbuilding’s Kattupalli Shipyard near Chennai, marking the first operational milestone under the Maersk–L&T maritime collaboration. A.P. Moller-Maersk has partnered with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) for the planned drydocking of the Maersk Chattogram at the Kattupalli Shipyard near Chennai. The Singapore-flagged container vessel is scheduled to arrive at the yard on October 20, 2026, subject to operational and weather conditions. The project is the first operational outcome of the Memorandum of Understanding signed by Maersk and L&T during India Maritime Week 2025. The MoU covers potential cooperation in shipbuilding, ship repair, knowledge exchange and development of global-standard maritime capability in India. 10-Year Maintenance and Special Survey The drydocking forms part of the vessel’s planned 10-year lifecycle maintenance programme. Work will include the scheduled special survey along with maintenance and overhaul of the hull and structure, machinery, equipment and propulsion systems. Drydocking allows inspection and repair of areas normally submerged underwater, alongside work on onboard systems. The process is essential for maintaining a vessel’s safety, seaworthiness, operational performance and reliability for the next five years. India’s Largest Shiplift System Maersk Chattogram will undergo a specialised lift-out operation using India’s largest Shiplift system at L&T Shipbuilding, Kattupalli. The system will lift the vessel out of the water for extensive inspection, maintenance and repair work. The project will bring together Maersk’s fleet and technical teams with L&T, Indian subcontractors, suppliers and maritime service providers. The companies said the focus will be on safe execution, quality delivery and knowledge sharing throughout the docking. Boost for India’s Ship Repair Ecosystem The drydocking signals growing confidence in India’s ship repair and shipyard capabilities. Maersk said the project aligns its global technical requirements with India’s developing shipyard, supplier and maritime-service ecosystem. L&T said the docking advances its strategic partnership with Maersk and supports efforts to strengthen domestic capabilities and supply chains across the shipbuilding ecosystem. Both companies view India as having strong potential to become a more important global maritime hub

Andhra Pradesh has invited bids for a proposed ₹1,700-crore inland waterway corridor connecting Muktyala with the upcoming Machilipatnam Port to strengthen industrial freight movement and port connectivity. The project aims to establish an alternative cargo transportation route for industries in the state, reduce dependence on road freight and improve the movement of bulk commodities. The Andhra Pradesh Inland Waterways Authority (APIWA) has initiated the tendering process for the development of the corridor under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model through a public-private partnership (PPP). The proposed 168-km route will combine an 82-km stretch along the Krishna River between Muktyala and Prakasam Barrage with the Bandar Canal section leading towards Machilipatnam Port. The initiative has received in-principal approval from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI). The project envisages upgrading the existing waterway infrastructure to accommodate cargo vessels and facilitate the movement of industrial materials, including cement, limestone and fly ash, from manufacturing clusters around Jaggayyapeta. By linking inland industrial centres with port infrastructure, the corridor is expected to improve freight efficiency and offer businesses an additional mode of transport. The Bandar Canal stretch between Prakasam Barrage in Vijayawada and Machilipatnam Port will be developed to specified navigation standards. Plans include maintaining a minimum channel depth of 1.5 metres and a bottom width of 20 metres. A navigation lock measuring 70 metres in length and 15 metres in width will be constructed at Prakasam Barrage to facilitate vessel movement. The development will also involve replacing low-level bridges that obstruct navigation with high-level structures, relocating utility lines and establishing cargo and passenger terminals. Cargo-handling infrastructure, including cranes and conveyors, will support loading and unloading operations. The selected developer will execute the project through a concession arrangement spanning 50 years, structured as an initial 30-year term with two possible 10-year extensions. Construction is expected to be completed within 36 months of the award. APIWA will facilitate statutory clearances and provide support for land acquisition. According to the tender conditions, prospective bidders must meet specified financial and infrastructure-experience requirements. Online bids are due by November 30, 2026, while technical bids are scheduled to be opened on December 7. For Andhra Pradesh, the project represents an opportunity to diversify its freight network by integrating inland waterways with industrial production centres and maritime gateways. If implemented effectively, the corridor could help ease road congestion, improve bulk-cargo logistics and strengthen Machilipatnam Port’s role in the state’s expanding trade infrastructure. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

 India’s inland waterway cargo traffic reached 218 million metric tonnes in the 2025–26 financial year, exceeding the 200-million-tonne target set under Maritime India Vision 2030. The milestone reflects the sector’s expansion over the past decade, as the government continues to develop navigation infrastructure, improve operational information and encourage cargo owners to consider waterway-based freight solutions. According to government figures highlighted on 16 October 2026, inland waterway cargo increased from 29 million tonnes in 2014–15 to 218 million tonnes in 2025–26. The latest volume is 18 million tonnes above the 2030 benchmark, representing a 9% increase over the target. The next challenge for the sector is to translate higher cargo volumes into dependable, commercially competitive freight services that can connect waterways with road and rail networks. Inland Waterway Network Continues to Expand: India has 111 National Waterways spanning 20,187 kilometres across 23 states and four Union Territories. However, 32 waterways, covering 5,155 kilometres, were operational as of March 2026. The distinction between designated and operational waterways remains important for cargo owners and logistics providers. Commercial services require navigable channels, suitable terminals, reliable vessel operations and effective connections to production and consumption centres. The Union Budget 2026–27 announced plans to operationalise 20 additional National Waterways over five years. The initiative forms part of the broader effort to expand the availability of inland water transport and strengthen its role in the national freight network. Longer-term policy ambitions include increasing inland water transport’s share of freight movement from approximately 2% to 5% and reaching 500 million tonnes of cargo by 2047. Navigation Information Becomes Critical to Operations: As cargo volumes rise, navigation reliability and access to timely operational information are becoming increasingly important. By September 2026, regular surveys monitoring the deepest navigable channel covered 22 National Waterways. Depending on local requirements, surveys are conducted weekly, fortnightly or monthly to assess available depth and support decisions on vessel draft and cargo loading. Electronic Navigational Charts had also been prepared for 18 operational and tidal waterways. Digital platforms, including PANI and IWAI Vessel Tracker, provide navigation-related information to operators. Access to more reliable data can help vessel operators plan voyages, determine loading conditions and manage schedules. However, digital information must be supported by physical infrastructure and fairway maintenance to ensure that waterways remain usable under changing conditions. For freight customers, the effectiveness of these measures will depend on whether they improve service consistency, vessel utilisation and the predictability of cargo movements. Jalvahak Scheme Seeks to Encourage Cargo Shift: Financial incentives are another element of the government’s strategy to increase waterway utilisation. Launched in December 2024, the Jalvahak scheme provides incentives of up to 35% of eligible operating expenditure for the waterway leg of qualifying cargo movements. The scheme covers National Waterways 1, 2 and 16, along with eligible routes under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol. A separate component supports scheduled services operated by Inland and Coastal Shipping Limited, with funding from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI). The scheme addresses a key challenge in multimodal logistics: while water transport may offer advantages over certain long-distance road movements, additional handling, terminal charges and connecting transport can affect the overall cost of delivery. The incentive excludes first- and last-mile expenditure. Cargo owners must therefore evaluate the full logistics chain, including terminal handling, connecting road or rail transport, sailing frequency, transit time and delivery requirements. The commercial viability of waterway freight ultimately depends on the cost and reliability of the complete journey rather than the waterborne segment alone. Infrastructure Supports Multimodal Freight Movement: Infrastructure developed under the Jal Marg Vikas Project provides part of the foundation for cargo operations along National Waterway 1. Key developments include multimodal terminals at Varanasi, Sahibganj and Haldia, an intermodal terminal at Kalughat and a navigation lock at Farakka. These facilities are intended to support cargo handling and connect river transport with inland logistics networks. Private investment is also being encouraged to expand terminal infrastructure. The National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025 established a framework intended to facilitate the development of jetties and terminals by companies, public bodies and joint ventures. The combination of infrastructure investment, navigation support and cargo incentives is intended to create more opportunities for businesses to incorporate inland waterways into their transport strategies. Commercial Competitiveness Remains the Next Test: Crossing the 200-million-tonne target represents a significant milestone in the expansion of India’s inland waterway cargo business. Sustaining this growth will require more than increasing aggregate tonnage. For manufacturers, exporters, importers and logistics providers, key considerations include predictable transit times, dependable vessel schedules, adequate terminal capacity and effective road and rail connections. Cargo volumes also need to be assessed alongside the distances travelled and the economics of individual routes. Tonnage measures the quantity of cargo handled, while tonne-kilometres account for both cargo weight and distance, offering a different perspective on freight activity. As additional waterways become operational and supporting infrastructure develops, the sector’s progress will increasingly depend on its ability to secure regular commercial cargo commitments. For India’s logistics industry, the priority is now to turn the expansion in inland waterway traffic into reliable, cost-effective and integrated freight services that can support long-term supply chain development. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates

The Port of Montreal and Adani Group have renewed their collaboration agreement to strengthen maritime trade between India and Canada, improve cargo connectivity and create new business opportunities for exporters, importers and logistics providers. The agreement was signed in Mumbai on October 15, 2026, during Team Canada’s trade mission to India, held from October 12 to 17. Captain Sandeep Mehta, representing Adani Group, and Marie-Claude Galarneau, Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating and Transformation Officer of the Montreal Port Authority (MPA), signed the agreement in the presence of Canada’s Minister of International Trade, Maninder Sidhu. The renewed partnership builds on cooperation established in 2018 and prioritises the development of the Mundra-Montreal maritime corridor. Key areas of collaboration include joint business promotion, information sharing, the exchange of port and technological expertise, and improvements in port operations and road-rail connectivity. The organisations will also explore opportunities in vehicle transportation and exchanges between their teams. India ranked as the Port of Montreal’s second-largest trading partner in 2025, with approximately one million tonnes of goods exchanged between the two countries through the port. Exports accounted for around 60% of the trade volume, while imports represented the remaining 40%. Major commodities imported from India include food products, ceramics and plastics, while Montreal facilitates exports to India that include forestry and metal products. To strengthen its market presence, the MPA has appointed Prakash Tulsiani as its representative in India. The appointment is expected to improve engagement with shipping lines, freight forwarders, importers and exporters, helping identify commercial opportunities and promote the port’s services. The Port of Montreal handled 34.3 million tonnes of cargo in 2025, including containerised freight, liquid bulk and dry bulk. Its container throughput reached 1.52 million TEUs, underlining its role as a diversified gateway for international trade and multimodal logistics. The agreement comes amid broader efforts by India and Canada to expand bilateral commercial engagement and diversify international trade partnerships. Both countries are also pursuing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which could create further opportunities for businesses and logistics stakeholders. For supply chain operators, the renewed collaboration offers a framework to explore more efficient cargo movement, share operational best practices and strengthen connections between maritime and inland transport networks. However, the agreement does not announce a new scheduled direct shipping service; actual routing and transit arrangements will continue to depend on carrier networks and cargo requirements. As trade flows evolve, closer cooperation between the Port of Montreal and Adani Group could help businesses assess new market opportunities and improve access to international supply chains. The partnership's long-term impact will depend on commercial participation, reliable transport connections and the growth of cargo volumes between the two countries. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Paradip Port Authority (PPA) has set a target of handling more than 170 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo in the financial year 2026-27, building on its record throughput of 156.45 MMT in FY 2025-26. The target represents an increase of approximately 8.7% over the previous financial year, reinforcing the port’s ambition to strengthen its position as a leading maritime gateway on India’s eastern coast. PPA Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit announced the target during an interactive meeting with members of the Paradip Port Stevedores Association on 15 October 2026. The meeting, attended by heads of departments, focused on improving cargo-handling productivity, resolving operational bottlenecks and strengthening coordination among port stakeholders. Infrastructure Upgrades to Support Cargo Growth To facilitate higher cargo volumes, PPA reviewed several infrastructure improvement measures aimed at ensuring smoother cargo movement and more efficient port operations. These include upgrading roads within and outside the port premises, improving paved surfaces and developing suitable cargo-stacking areas to facilitate transportation and minimise waterlogging. Drainage improvements have also received approval, while better sanitation, hygiene and welfare facilities for workers and visitors remain part of the port’s efforts to improve conditions across its operational areas. Strengthening Operational Efficiency and Coordination The discussions also covered mechanisation, dredging requirements, traffic management and coordination between PPA, private terminal operators and stevedores. The authority emphasised the importance of integrating modern cargo-handling practices while safeguarding the business interests of traditional stevedoring operators. Purohit called for collective efforts from port officials and industry stakeholders to improve productivity and maintain competitiveness amid global economic uncertainties and increasing regional competition. Greater coordination among stakeholders is expected to help address operational challenges and support more consistent cargo movement. Building on Record Performance Paradip Port’s latest target follows its highest-ever annual cargo throughput since operations began in 1966. Achieving the FY 2026–27 goal will require sustained operational performance, reliable infrastructure and effective collaboration across the port’s cargo-handling ecosystem. The planned improvements underline the importance of combining infrastructure development with day-to-day operational efficiency. As cargo demand evolves, Paradip’s ability to streamline port operations and strengthen stakeholder coordination will be critical to achieving its growth target and supporting trade across eastern India. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Paradip Port Authority (PPA) has constructed the 500-metre-long Atharabanki Bridge at a cost of ₹24.89 crore to strengthen road connectivity and facilitate smoother cargo transportation in the Paradip Port region. The three-lane bridge is expected to ease traffic congestion, improve the movement of commercial vehicles and enhance connectivity between the port and the surrounding road network. The development is particularly significant given that nearly 3,000 trucks move through Paradip Port every day. Three-Lane Bridge to Ease Traffic Congestion: The newly constructed Atharabanki Bridge replaces an ageing two-lane structure that faced capacity constraints amid rising transportation demand. Its expanded configuration is designed to accommodate increased traffic volumes and improve access for trucks and other vehicles involved in port-related operations. The upgraded infrastructure is expected to support more efficient cargo movement, reduce potential delays and improve road access for transport operators, logistics providers and other stakeholders associated with the port. Key Features of the Atharabanki Bridge: The project incorporates several features aimed at improving connectivity and functionality: Project cost: ₹24.89 crore Length: 500 metres Configuration: Three lanes Structural component: 30-metre composite girder Additional facilities: Dedicated footpaths and a pipeline corridor Dedicated pedestrian pathways provide designated space for people on foot, while the pipeline corridor accommodates infrastructure requirements associated with pipelines. Boost to Port Logistics and Regional Connectivity: As a major maritime gateway on India's eastern coast, Paradip Port plays an important role in cargo transportation and trade. Efficient road connectivity is essential to ensuring the smooth movement of goods between port facilities and the wider transportation network. The Atharabanki Bridge is expected to strengthen this vital link by improving traffic flow and supporting the movement of cargo-carrying vehicles. Better connectivity could also help reduce transportation delays, improve logistics efficiency and enhance the reliability of port-related operations. Beyond its immediate benefits for port traffic, the bridge is expected to improve regional accessibility and support economic activity in the Paradip area. Infrastructure Investment to Support Future Growth: The construction of the Atharabanki Bridge highlights the importance of developing supporting infrastructure to meet the evolving demands of ports, trade and logistics. As cargo volumes and road transportation requirements increase, investments in bridges and connectivity corridors are essential to strengthening supply-chain efficiency. By upgrading the existing two-lane crossing to a modern three-lane structure, Paradip Port Authority has taken a step towards improving the port's supporting infrastructure. The project is expected to contribute to smoother cargo movement, stronger regional connectivity and improved efficiency across India's maritime logistics network.  

Tuticorin Container Terminal handled a record 33,771 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in September 2026, marking a significant milestone in its operational performance and reinforcing its focus on efficiency, reliability and service quality. The achievement reflects the collective efforts of the terminal’s workforce across operational, technical and support functions. Their dedication, resilience and coordination have played a key role in ensuring smooth cargo movement and maintaining operational continuity. The terminal also highlighted the contributions of women across its operational, technical and support teams, underscoring the growing importance of gender diversity and inclusive workforce practices in the maritime sector. Tuticorin Container Terminal expressed its gratitude to vessel operators, container lines and other stakeholders for their continued trust and partnership. It also acknowledged the support and cooperation of the V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority in facilitating efficient terminal operations. The record monthly throughput marks another step in the terminal’s efforts to strengthen operational excellence and stakeholder collaboration. With a continued focus on dependable services, workforce engagement, and operational efficiency, the terminal aims to support growing cargo movement and enhance regional container logistics capabilities. The handling of 33,771 TEUs in a single month highlights the role of coordinated teamwork and industry partnerships in strengthening Tuticorin’s position in India’s container logistics network. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated development projects and laid foundation stones for infrastructure initiatives worth more than ₹13,000 crore across Tamil Nadu, highlighting the state’s strategic role in strengthening India’s maritime logistics, transport connectivity and industrial growth. The announcements, made in Chennai on October 11, 2026, include port infrastructure upgrades, road and railway projects, and urban transport development. A key highlight was the proposed transformation of V O Chidambaranar (VOC) Port in Thoothukudi into a world-class mega container and green energy hub, backed by an investment of approximately ₹17,000 crore. The planned development is intended to enhance the port’s capacity to handle ultra-large container vessels, strengthen maritime connectivity and position Tamil Nadu as a more competitive gateway for international trade. VOC Port Expansion to Strengthen Maritime Logistics The proposed mega container hub at VOC Port is expected to support India’s ambitions to expand its container-handling capabilities and improve integration with global shipping networks. Greater capacity for large vessels could help strengthen trade connectivity, improve operational efficiency and support cargo movement through southern India. The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of modernising port infrastructure to enable the shipping sector to grow. He also highlighted improvements in port efficiency, noting that reduced vessel turnaround times have helped Indian goods reach international markets faster. Alongside the long-term expansion plan, projects worth ₹517.19 crore were included for a container terminal at VOC Port. The terminal forms part of eight projects at the port with a combined investment of ₹753.68 crore. Separately, port infrastructure works worth ₹640 crore at Chennai and Kamarajar ports are aimed at expanding cargo-handling capacity and strengthening logistics infrastructure. The proposed ₹17,000-crore VOC Port transformation is a strategic development distinct from the projects worth over ₹13,000 crore launched during the Chennai visit. Connectivity and Infrastructure Development The wider investment programme spans ports, highways, railways, petroleum infrastructure, urban transport and scientific research. Among the major initiatives, Modi inaugurated the Poonamallee–Vadapalani stretch of Chennai Metro Phase II, developed at a cost of approximately ₹4,900 crore. The new section is expected to improve connectivity across western Chennai and support smoother urban mobility. Road and railway infrastructure projects are also intended to strengthen regional connectivity, facilitate passenger and freight movement, and support industrial activity across Tamil Nadu. Supporting Trade, Jobs and Economic Growth The infrastructure push reflects the importance of coordinated investment across transport modes to improve logistics efficiency and economic competitiveness. Modern ports, supported by efficient road and rail links, can help reduce bottlenecks, improve cargo evacuation and connect manufacturing centres with domestic and international markets. The VOC Port mega container and green energy hub proposal also aligns with the broader ambition to strengthen India’s maritime capabilities while advancing cleaner energy infrastructure. Its long-term impact will depend on project execution, capacity creation and effective integration with inland logistics networks. Together, the announced initiatives are expected to support employment generation, improve connectivity and reinforce Tamil Nadu’s position as an important industrial and logistics centre. For India’s supply chain sector, the port investments are particularly significant as the country seeks to expand trade capacity and build more efficient links with global markets. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

India and the European Union (EU) have launched an industry coalition to develop a green shipping corridor between the two markets, marking a significant step towards cleaner maritime trade and the adoption of low-emission fuels. The initiative was announced during the third edition of Sagar Manthan 2026 and aims to bring industry stakeholders together to advance greener maritime routes and supporting infrastructure. Shipping Secretary Vijay Kumar said the coalition would help translate cooperation between India and the EU into practical industry partnerships focused on cleaner maritime operations. The initiative comes at a time when the global shipping sector is navigating geopolitical disruptions, supply-chain vulnerabilities, climate pressures and rapid technological changes. The coalition is expected to provide a platform for companies and other stakeholders to collaborate on the development of green shipping infrastructure, alternative fuels and lower-emission maritime trade routes. Greater international cooperation and private investment will be critical to building resilient maritime supply chains while enabling emerging economies to participate in the global transition towards cleaner energy. As part of its broader maritime decarbonisation strategy, India is also targeting a substantial increase in renewable energy use at its major ports. The country plans to raise the share of renewable energy in the overall energy consumption of major ports to more than 60% by 2030 and above 90% by 2047. The transition is also extending to harbour craft. Diesel-powered harbour tugs are being progressively replaced with green-powered vessels, while Deendayal Port at Kandla, Paradip Port and V.O. Chidambaranar Port at Tuticorin have been identified as green hydrogen hubs. These ports are being positioned to support the production, storage and bunkering of cleaner fuels, including green hydrogen. The green shipping corridor initiative also aligns with India's wider plans to expand maritime infrastructure and capacity. The government is targeting total port capacity of 10 billion tonnes annually by 2047. Major ports handled more than 915 million tonnes of cargo in 2025-26, compared with 581 million tonnes in 2014-15. Cargo transported through national waterways has also increased substantially, reaching 218 million tonnes from 18 million tonnes in 2013-14. The India-EU green shipping corridor could therefore serve as a framework for aligning cleaner fuels, port infrastructure, vessel operations and international trade. By bringing industry participation into the decarbonisation process, the coalition could help accelerate investment and create commercially viable pathways for lower-emission shipping between India and Europe. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!