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!