Sarbananda Sonowal Inaugurates Rs. 187 Crore Port Development Projects in Chennai to Boost Infrastructure and Sustainability

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, inaugurated a series of major development projects worth Rs. 187 crores at the Chennai Port Authority (ChPA) and Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) on Monday. These projects are set to enhance port infrastructure, streamline trade operations, and support India's green port initiatives, aligning with the country's broader goals for sustainable development and global trade competitiveness.

Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Sonowal emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening India's maritime infrastructure while prioritizing sustainability. "These projects reflect our dedication to enhancing India's port infrastructure and our relentless focus on environmental sustainability. We are preparing our ports to meet the growing demands of global trade while ensuring they adhere to green practices and contribute to India's environmental objectives," he said.

Key Projects Inaugurated:

EXIM Godowns at Chennai Port

The construction of four new Export-Import (EXIM) godowns at Chennai Port, valued at Rs. 73.91 crore, will provide critical storage space for sensitive goods like food grains and agricultural products. These godowns, covering 18,000 square meters, are designed to meet the specialized needs of delicate goods that require hygienic, covered storage. The project is funded under the Sagarmala Initiative, part of India’s strategy to expand port capacity and support the increasing trade volume.

Concrete Beach Road at Chennai Port

Minister Sonowal also dedicated a newly constructed concrete beach road, 350 meters long and 12 meters wide, for Rs. 4 crore. This road will facilitate smoother transport of containers and heavy freight to the Chennai Port's Second Container Terminal (CITPL). The new infrastructure improves accessibility, reduces dust pollution, and supports environmental compliance efforts at the port.

Southern Railway Connectivity at Kamarajar Port

At Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL), a significant upgrade to railway connectivity has been initiated with an investment of Rs. 88.91 crore. This project includes the construction of a new 2.65 km railway line, the conversion of unmanned level crossings into interlocking crossings, and the creation of three new rail bridges over the Buckingham Canal and Kosasthalai River. The enhanced rail infrastructure will allow KPL to double its rail-handling capacity from 22 to 44 rakes per day, enabling faster and safer movement of goods.

Shore Power Supply Facility for Coal Tankers at KPL

KPL also inaugurated a Shore Power Supply Facility for coal tankers, with an investment of Rs. 20.51 crore. The facility, located at berths CB1 and CB2, will provide shore power to coal tankers, allowing them to operate without using diesel engines. This initiative is in line with India’s Green Port Guidelines, reducing emissions and promoting cleaner, more cost-effective operations at the port.

A Vision for Sustainable Growth

These projects are part of the Ministry’s broader vision to build a robust, sustainable port ecosystem capable of supporting India’s growing role as a major maritime hub and global trade facilitator. They also mark an important step forward in meeting the increasing demands of EXIM trade, improving the efficiency and environmental sustainability of port operations.
Minister Sonowal reiterated the government's commitment to enhancing India's maritime infrastructure, stating that these projects will not only bolster Chennai and Kamarajar ports but also help position India as a global leader in green, sustainable shipping and logistics.

With these strategic investments, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways is laying the foundation for a future-ready port ecosystem that will drive India’s economic growth, improve operational efficiencies, and contribute to global sustainability efforts.