The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, inaugurated the Tuticorin International Container Terminal (TICT) at the V O Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) in Tamil Nadu, marking a major step in enhancing India’s maritime infrastructure. The event also witnessed the launch of key infrastructure projects and the commencement of several other significant initiatives, strengthening the port’s role in the nation’s trade and energy sectors.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the inauguration through a video message, highlighted the terminal’s significance in bolstering India’s capacity to handle increased trade volumes. The newly operational terminal is expected to reduce logistics costs and contribute to India’s foreign exchange savings, supporting the nation’s broader economic objectives. The deep draft and extended berth of the terminal are designed to enhance the efficiency and capacity of the V O C Port, making it a crucial addition to the country’s marine infrastructure.
The container terminal, developed with an investment exceeding Rs 434 crore, is set to handle up to 6 lakh TEUs annually. Its advanced facilities, including a 14.20 m draft, enable it to accommodate container vessels with capacities of up to 10,000 TEUs. This development is expected to significantly ease port operations and reduce transshipment times, making logistics smoother and more cost-effective.
Sarbananda Sonowal also launched the port’s new Green Hydrogen Project, part of a broader push towards establishing India as a global hub for green hydrogen. Alongside this, a 400 kW rooftop solar power plant was unveiled under the Harit Sagar Green Port Initiative. These projects are part of VOCPA’s larger commitment to renewable energy, aligning with national efforts to tackle climate change and boost sustainable development.
Another key moment of the event was the start of operations at the TICT, marked by the maiden voyage of a container vessel from the new terminal. The terminal’s streamlined operations are expected to save the industry significant costs—up to US$ 200 per container—and optimize operational expenses by up to $ 4 million annually.
In addition to the container terminal, the Union Minister inaugurated a range of other important projects at the port, including upgraded power infrastructure, new lighting systems, and a drone surveillance network aimed at enhancing security at the port. Foundation stones were laid for additional infrastructure projects, including a green hydrogen demonstration project, solar power plants, and a conveyor system for coal transport. These projects are anticipated to boost both efficiency and safety at the port while contributing to its green energy objectives.
A series of land lease agreements were signed during the event with major companies like ACME and Green Infra-Renewable Energy Farms Pvt Ltd, which are expected to pave the way for significant investments in the region’s renewable energy sector. This move underscores VOCPA’s focus on expanding its industrial landscape and tapping into the potential of sustainable energy sources.
Furthering VOCPA’s growth, the port launched its ‘Mission 50’ initiative, aiming to handle 50 MT of cargo by the end of the 2024-25 fiscal year. This ambitious goal reflects the port’s growing role in driving both regional and national economic growth.
On the social front, the Union Minister also participated in a plantation drive, part of the nationwide ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, which aims to promote environmental awareness. VOCPA also rolled out several Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, including a de-addiction centre and public artwork projects aimed at improving the quality of life for local communities. These efforts underscore the port’s commitment to contributing to social welfare, in addition to its economic and environmental contributions.
Operated by the JM Baxi Group, the new container terminal spans 10 hectare and features a 370 m long berth, enhancing the port’s capacity to handle an increased volume of cargo. This, alongside the green energy projects and CSR initiatives, is expected to boost the local economy, create jobs, and foster more inclusive growth in the region.
The terminal’s opening and associated projects are seen as key to strengthening India’s maritime capabilities, aligning with the country’s vision of modernizing and expanding its infrastructure to meet future demands. The VOCPA, with these new developments, is poised to play an increasingly important role in the nation’s maritime and trade sectors.