V.O. Chidambaranar Port Handled 14.73 MMT Cargo, 2.95 lakh TEUs up to July 2026: Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit

Tuticorin:

Port Wings News Network:

V.O. Chidambaranar Port celebrated the 80^th Independence Day in a grand manner at the CISF Parade Ground on 15 August 2026.

Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, hoisted the National Flag. And it was followed by inspection of the parade and salute to the CISF contingent, Port Fire Service, and NCC students of the Port Schools.

In his Independence Day address, the Chairperson paid tribute to the freedom fighters, who made immense sacrifices for the nation’s independence and highlighted the important role of the maritime sector in India’s economic growth.

“14.73 million tonnes of cargo and 2.95 lakh TEUs”

He stated that the Port had handled 14.73 million tonnes of cargo and 2.95 lakh TEUs up to July 2026 during the financial year 2026- 27.

He also highlighted the record handling of 1,782 windmill blades during the period and the Port’s highest-ever parcel size of 1.04 lakh tonnes of coal at North Cargo Berth-2 in May 2026.

The Chairperson also highlighted key infrastructure projects, including Multi Cargo Berth No. 10, development of Berth No. 7 as the Port’s third Container Terminal, North Cargo Berth-4, strengthening of existing berths, dredging improvements and widening of the entrance channel.

He further emphasised the Outer Harbour Project, which is aimed at enhancing the Port’s future capacity and competitiveness.

MERITORIOUS AWARDS TO THE OFFICERS, STAFF AND STUDENTS

As part of the celebrations, Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson, distributed the Best Turn-out Award and meritorious awards to the officers and staff of the Port, Port School students and teachers, and children of Port employees. Students of Harbour Higher Secondary School, and Kendriya Vidyalaya, along with the VOC Port Cultural Team, presented cultural programmes during the occasion. The CISF unit conducted a rescue demonstration.

Later, Susanta Kumar Purohit also inaugurated the Ultrasound Unit at the Port Hospital. A plantation programme was also conducted at Berth No. 8 as part of the celebrations.