V.O. Chidambaranar Port Records Exponential Growth in Handling of Construction Materials
Tuticorin:
Port Wings News Network:
V.O. Chidambaranar Port, one of India’s leading gateways for bulk and break-bulk cargo, has registered remarkable growth in handling construction materials.
According to a media statement from the port authority, in this financial year 2025-26, the Port has handled 5,48,994 tonnes of construction materials up to August 2025, reflecting an impressive 212.87 % increase over the 1,75,468 tonnes handled during the corresponding period of the previous financial year 2024-25.
The Port has consistently enhanced its capability to handle such cargoes over the years. Construction material handling increased from 9,39,113 tonnes in 2023-24, to 11,01,041 tonnes in 2024-25, highlighting a steady upward trend in cargo throughput.
The construction materials handled through the Port include stone rough, stone aggregate, stone dust, and paver blocks, which are key components in infrastructure development projects. These commodities are sourced from primary hinterland of VOC Port and exported to Maldives, playing a vital role in supporting the infrastructure development of our maritime neighbour. This reflects the Port’s strategic role in advancing regional connectivity under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Neighbourhood First Policy, which promotes economic and infrastructure cooperation with India’s immediate neighbours.
Speaking on this achievement, Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson, VOCPA, said that the significant growth in construction material handling underscores VOC Port’s growing importance as a trusted gateway for bulk cargo trade. “With the ongoing infrastructure enhancements, the Port will further support regional and international infrastructure development,” he added.
Record Handling of Sulphuric Acid
The Port handled 2,40,127 tonnes of Sulphuric Acid up to August in this financial year 2025-26, recording a 14.14 % increase compared to the 2,10,371 tonnes handled in the same period of the previous financial year 2024-25. This growth reflects the Port’s enhanced efficiency and its rising role as a key hub for liquid cargo handling.
Port Chairperson Meets US Officials
Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson, recently chaired a meeting with Ms. Jordan E. Lasker, Vice Consul, and Ms. Greeta S. Dhas, Consular Assistant, American Citizen Services, U.S. Consulate General Chennai.
The discussion centred on emergency rescue and response plans for maritime incidents, Port’s capabilities in handling crisis situations and building partnerships for shared objectives and development.
Chairperson congratulates Port Staff for Cargo Milestone
Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson, congratulated and appreciated the dedicated efforts of the senior officers of the Port and terminal operators on achieving the remarkable milestone of fastest ever crossing 20 Million Tonnes in the current financial year. Major commodities contributing to this significant milestone include limestone, salt, rock phosphate, edible oil, containers and construction materials, reflecting the Port’s diversified cargo handling and operational excellence.
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