PM Narendra Modi dedicates North Cargo Berth - III to the Nation (Photo: X/@sarbanandsonwal)
By Vikas Lochab
Tuticorin: The VO Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA), a cornerstone of southern India’s maritime trade, marks a significant milestone today as the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, dedicates the newly developed North Cargo Berth-III to the nation.
This landmark occasion underscores VOC Port’s robust performance, having handled 13.76 million tonnes of cargo and 2,72,439 TEUs of containers up to 23 July 2025, reflecting impressive growth of 5.75% and 11.44% respectively compared to the previous financial year.
With an ambitious target to manage 50 million tonnes of cargo and 1 million TEUs this year, VOCPA is advancing swiftly, aligning with India’s ‘Gati Shakti’ initiative and Maritime India Vision 2030.
On this occasion, Modi remarked: ‘Last February, I laid the foundation stone for the ‘Outer Harbour Container Terminal’ at V.O. Chidambaranar Port. At that time, projects worth hundreds of crores of rupees were also inaugurated. In September, I dedicated the new Tuticorin International Container Terminal to the nation. Today, once again, projects worth four thousand eight hundred crore rupees have been inaugurated and their foundation stones laid here. These encompass projects related to airports, motorways, ports, and railways, alongside significant initiatives in the power sector. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you, the people of Tamil Nadu, on this accomplishment.’
A Cornerstone of Southern India’s maritime Trade: Susanta Kumar purohit
On this occasion VOCPA Chairman Susanta Kumar Purohit stated: ‘The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, a linchpin of southern India’s maritime trade, is proud to dedicate the newly developed North Cargo Berth-III, which enhances our annual capacity by 7 million tonnes. With a 5.75% increase in cargo handling and pioneering green initiatives, such as India’s first Green Hydrogen Pilot Plant, VOCPA continues to drive economic progress and sustainability in line with Maritime India Vision 2030.’
A Vital Economic Hub
Situated in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, VOC Port serves as a critical gateway for export-import (EXIM) trade, bolstering southern India’s economy. Its strategic location on the east coast and efficient operations have solidified its role in enhancing India’s maritime connectivity.
The dedication of North Cargo Berth-III underscores VOCPA’s commitment to modernisation, sustainability, and capacity expansion to meet growing industrial demands.
Rapid Infrastructure Development
In the past financial year, VOC Port has significantly enhanced its cargo-handling capabilities through key infrastructure projects. The Tuticorin International Container Terminal, inaugurated in September 2024, can handle 700,000 TEUs annually, streamlining container operations and reducing turnaround times.
The JSW Tuticorin Multipurpose Terminal, with a capacity of 7 million tonnes of bulk cargo, has diversified the port’s offerings.
In May 2025, the port expanded its turning circle and dredged in front of North Cargo Berth-III, facilitating navigation for larger vessels. A multipurpose berth at Berth-7 was commissioned in March 2025, while a link conveyor system introduced in January 2025 optimised idle capacities.
The Direct Port Entry facility for export containers, launched in April 2025, has expedited processes, aligning with the ‘Gati Shakti’ vision for integrated infrastructure development.
Leading Green Maritime Innovation
VOC Port is at the forefront of sustainable maritime practices, having commissioned India’s first Green Hydrogen Pilot Plant in May 2025. This milestone reduces the port’s carbon footprint and sets a national benchmark. VOCPA has allocated 501 acres for green hydrogen and ammonia projects, attracting investments of ₹41,860 crore. These initiatives support India’s net-zero ambitions under Maritime India Vision 2030, fostering innovation and job creation.
Supporting Industrial Growth
To meet the logistical needs of Tuticorin’s burgeoning industries, including VinFast, Vikram Solar, Tata Solar, the SIPCOT Furniture Park, windmill blade manufacturing, and potential shipbuilding and automobile accessory sectors, VOCPA is implementing strategic capacity enhancements. Plans include deepening inner harbour berths to a 16.00-metre draft, constructing North Cargo Berth-4 (400 metres) as an Offshore Wind Terminal, and developing Berth-10 as a multi-cargo berth.
The port is also widening its entrance and dredging the approach channel to accommodate fully loaded Panamax vessels, improving efficiency and reducing congestion.
Establishing a Maritime Hub
VOCPA aims to transform into a comprehensive maritime hub by establishing a dedicated shipbuilding and ship repair facility on the east coast. This initiative will attract international shipyards, create specialised employment opportunities, and bolster
India’s maritime self-reliance, ensuring global competitiveness through stakeholder collaboration and technological adoption.
North Cargo Berth-III: A Game-Changer
The dedication of North Cargo Berth-III, developed at a cost of ₹285 crore, addresses the rising demand for bulk cargo.
With a draft of 14.20 metres, a capacity of 7 million tonnes annually, and a length of 306 metres, the berth handles coal, copper concentrate, limestone, gypsum, and rock phosphate—critical for the power, metallurgy, and agriculture sectors.
Currently equipped with two harbour mobile cranes, the berth will soon feature advanced shore unloaders and a conveyor system, enhancing efficiency. Benefits include improved cargo throughput, just-in-time berthing for deep-draft vessels, support for regional industries, and job creation (300 direct and 500 indirect roles).
A National Exemplar
The dedication by the prime minister signifies national recognition of VOC Port’s contributions to India’s maritime sector. It aligns with the government’s vision for world-class infrastructure, economic growth, and sustainability. VOCPA’s swift project execution sets a benchmark for other ports, driving innovation and efficiency.
Looking Ahead
The dedication of North Cargo Berth-III is a testament to the collaboration between the government, industry, and VOCPA. With ambitious targets of 50 million tonnes of cargo and 1 million TEUs, VOC Port is not merely keeping pace but leading southern India’s economic growth. Committed to delivering value, sustainability, and prosperity, VOCPA remains a vital engine for the nation.
About V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority
Located in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, VOCPA is one of India’s 12 major ports, facilitating EXIM trade under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. Handling diverse cargo, including containers and bulk commodities, VOCPA drives regional industrial growth through infrastructure development, green initiatives, and operational excellence.
(The writer is a Delhi-based media analyst and researcher)
