THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

PARADIP, OCTOBER 18, 2026

Paradip Port Authority (PPA) Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit visited the Jindal Paradip Port Limited (JPPL) berth at the Western Dock to review its operational readiness, infrastructure development and progress towards commissioning and operationalisation of the deep-draft terminal.

During the visit, the Chairperson reviewed berth operations and interacted with senior PPA officials and representatives of JPPL, including Sandeep Jaiswal, Deputy CEO, JPPL. The discussions focused on enhancing cargo-handling efficiency, achieving 100% berth mechanisation and strengthening rail and road connectivity to ensure seamless cargo evacuation.

The Chairperson also reviewed the progress of the Western Dock project, with particular emphasis on the commissioning and smooth operationalisation of Phase I, which has a cargo-handling capacity of 12.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). Developed under the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, the Western Dock project envisages a total dry bulk cargo-handling capacity of 25 MTPA, marking a significant step towards augmenting Paradip Port’s cargo-handling capabilities.

A key highlight of the review was the successful berthing of deep-draft Capesize vessels, marking an important milestone in strengthening Paradip Port’s ability to accommodate large vessels and facilitate efficient bulk cargo handling. Purohit appreciated the coordinated efforts of Team PPA and Team JPPL in achieving these operational milestones.

The review further underscored the importance of sustainable port operations, strict adherence to safety standards, technology-driven logistics solutions and the integration of efficient multimodal cargo evacuation systems. These measures are aimed at enhancing terminal productivity, minimising logistics bottlenecks and strengthening the port’s capacity to meet the growing requirements of industry and trade.

Purohit commended the collaborative efforts of PPA and JPPL in advancing the Western Dock project and strengthening Paradip Port’s infrastructure and operational capabilities. The development is expected to further consolidate Paradip Port’s position as a major maritime gateway on India’s eastern coast while contributing to the national vision of Viksit Bharat through efficient, sustainable and modern port-led development.