PIB Summary- 3rd April, 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Paradip Port becomes numero uno among Indian Major Ports in cargo throughput in FY 2023-24

Context

The news highlights Paradip Port Authority’s record-breaking cargo throughput, financial growth, and plans for capacity expansion, infrastructure development, and environmental initiatives.

Additional information on this news:

• Paradip Port Authority (PPA) achieved a record-breaking cargo throughput of 145.38 MMT in FY 2023-24, surpassing Deendayal Port to become the country’s highest cargo handling major port.
• Coastal shipping traffic reached 59.19 MMT, with thermal coal shipping reaching 43.97 MMT, positioning Paradip Port as a hub for coastal shipping.
• Berth productivity increased to 33,014 MT, the highest among all ports in the country, with 21,665 rakes and 2,710 ships handled during the year.
• Various system improvements contributed to the increased performance, including optimized coal handling, allowing the port to handle larger vessels and freezing tariff rates for three years.
• Financially, operating revenue exceeded Rs. 2,300 Crores, with significant growth in operating surplus, net surplus before and after tax, and an improved operating ratio of 36%.
• Plans for capacity expansion include the commissioning of the Western Dock project, mechanization of all berths by 2030, and additional berth construction.
• Connectivity improvements, port-led industrialization initiatives, environmental conservation efforts including tree plantation and solar power development, and plans for a green refueling station and hydrogen hub port are underway.
• The development of an ultramodern signal station with vessel traffic management information system aims to enhance vessel management and marine operations.

 Major ports in India:

• Jawaharlal Nehru Port (Nhava Sheva): Located near Mumbai, it is the largest container port in India. It handles a substantial portion of India’s containerized cargo and is a crucial hub for international trade.
• Mumbai Port: Also known as Bombay Port, it is the largest port in India by size and handling capacity. Situated on the west coast, it handles a significant portion of the country’s maritime trade.
• Chennai Port: Situated on the southeastern coast of India, Chennai Port is one of the oldest and busiest ports in the country. It handles a diverse range of cargo, including containers, automobiles, and bulk commodities.
• Kolkata Port (Kolkata-Haldia Dock Complex): Located on the eastern coast, Kolkata Port is one of the oldest operating ports in India. It consists of two separate dock systems: Kolkata Dock System and Haldia Dock Complex. Kolkata Port primarily handles bulk cargo and is an essential gateway for trade in eastern India.
• Visakhapatnam Port: Situated in Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam Port is one of the largest ports on the east coast of India. It handles various types of cargo, including iron ore, coal, crude oil, and containers. The port plays a crucial role in serving the trade needs of the region.
• Paradip Port: Located in Odisha, Paradip Port is a major port on the eastern coast of India. It primarily handles bulk cargo such as iron ore, coal, and petroleum products. The port has witnessed significant growth in recent years and plays a vital role in India’s maritime trade.
• Mormugao Port: Situated in Goa, Mormugao Port is a significant port on the west coast of India. It primarily handles iron ore exports and coal imports. The port also caters to the needs of the region’s industries and trade.
• Kandla Port: Located in Gujarat, Kandla Port is one of the largest ports in western India. It primarily handles bulk cargo, including petroleum products, chemicals, and grains. Kandla Port plays a crucial role in facilitating trade for the northwestern region of India.
• Cochin Port: Situated on the southwest coast of India in Kerala, Cochin Port is the largest container transshipment facility in India. It handles a diverse range of cargo, including containers, petroleum products, and dry bulk cargo. Cochin Port is strategically located, serving as a gateway to the Arabian Sea and facilitating trade with the Middle East and beyond.
• Ennore Port: Located in Tamil Nadu, Ennore Port is a relatively newer port that primarily handles bulk cargo such as coal, iron ore, and petroleum products. It serves as an important trade gateway for southern India and has been witnessing steady growth in cargo handling operations.