Union Minister Sonowal inaugurates key infra projects at Chennai and Kamarajar Ports

Union Minister Sonowal inaugurates key infrastructure projects at Chennai and Kamarajar Ports

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, has inaugurated a series of infrastructure projects at Chennai Port Authority (ChPA) and Kamarajar Port Ltd (KPL), with a collective investment of Rs 187.33 crore aimed at modernizing port facilities and advancing India’s green port vision. These enhancements are expected to bolster port infrastructure, optimize trade operations, and align with India’s ambitions for sustainable maritime development.

In his address, Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to port modernization, saying, “These projects are a testament to our commitment to strengthening India’s maritime infrastructure and our unwavering focus on sustainability. We are laying the groundwork for seamless operations and green practices, preparing our ports to meet the evolving demands of global trade while ensuring they align with environmental goals.”

A significant addition is the construction of four new EXIM godowns at Chennai Port, representing an investment of Rs 73.91 crore. Spanning 18,000 sq m, these facilities offer secure, dedicated storage for sensitive goods like agricultural products and food grains. Developed under the Sagarmala scheme, this project is in line with India’s goal of expanding trade capacities across major ports to meet escalating demands.

Furthering infrastructure improvements, the Minister also dedicated a newly constructed 350 m long concrete coastal road at Chennai Port. Built with a project cost of Rs 4 crore, the road is designed to handle heavy cargo movement, streamline access to the Second Container Terminal, and reduce dust pollution, marking a major upgrade in port operations.

At KPL, the focus on connectivity and efficiency was underscored with the inauguration of the Southern Railway Connectivity Doubling project. With an investment of Rs 88.91 crore, this expansion introduces an additional 2.65 kilometers of railway line, including three new rail bridges over the Kosasthalai River and Buckingham Canal, and interlocked crossings for safer transport. This enhancement will double KPL’s rail handling capacity from 22 to 44 rakes daily, facilitating faster cargo movement within the port.

In support of eco-friendly initiatives, the newly launched Shore Power Supply Facility for coal vessels at KPL, costing Rs 20.51 crore, reflects India’s Green Port Guidelines. The facility provides shore power to coal vessels at CB1 and CB2 berths, enabling operations without diesel engines, reducing emissions, and promoting a cleaner working environment.

The inauguration concluded with the presentation of the IAPH Sustainability Award report and recognition of KPL’s commendable CSR contributions for 2022-23. In a move celebrating heritage, the Minister also officiated the renaming of ‘Clive Battery Quarters’ to ‘Ramanujan Quarters’ under the Panch Pran initiative, reinforcing the Ministry’s commitment to building a resilient and inclusive port community.

These projects mark a pivotal step in Chennai and Kamarajar Ports’ transformation, highlighting the Ministry’s vision for a future-ready, sustainable port ecosystem that places India at the forefront of global maritime trade.

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