Bhubaneshwar, Jan 26 (.) Odisha’s Paradip Port has emerged as the “Gateway of India’s Growth,” recording a 9 per cent Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) over the last three years, well above the national average, said P. L. Haranadh, Chairman, Paradip Port Authority (PPA), while unfurling the tricolor during the observance of 77th Republic Day at the Port premises.
The Chairman highlighted that Paradip Port retained its position as India’s No. 1 cargo handling Major Port, by handling 150 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) of cargo in the last financial year. The Port continues to lead in efficiency, with berth productivity nearly double the national average, and handles nearly one-third of India’s coastal cargo.
Outlining future plans, he said Paradip Port is rapidly transforming into a mega port and is on track to cross 300 MMT capacity within the next year, with a long-term target of 350 MMT by 2030. The Western Dock Project is progressing ahead of schedule, while capital dredging to handle Cape Size vessels will be completed by March 2026. The Port is also moving towards 100 percent mechanization to enhance productivity and sustainability.
On green initiatives, Haranadh said Paradip Port is positioning itself as the Green Hydrogen Hub of eastern India, having signed MoUs worth Rs 1.5 lakh crore for Green Hydrogen and e-Methanol projects.
The Port is expected to become a Green Port within the next five months, supported by renewable energy initiatives, a 10 MW solar power plant, and one million tree coverage. By December 2026, all Port buses will operate on Green Hydrogen.
The Chairman also announced major employee welfare measures, including significant salary and allowance hikes for regular and contractual employees, and the provision of subsidized Piped Natural Gas connections to Port quarters.
On the peripheral development, Haranadh announced the development of the Kalinga Maritime Museum, a commercial complex with a multiplex and food court, a separate commercial mall, and large-scale development of Sector 21 with marina and boating facilities. A 2.5 km flyover has been constructed to improve traffic flow and safety.
He further informed that PPA is developing a 150 MMT satellite port at Bahuda in Ganjam district and a shipbuilding and ship repair facility of 1.5 million gross tonnes near Paradip.
. MK SAS .