Kamarajar Port’s Victory March Continues; Sailing Into its 26th Year of Operations
Chennai:
Port Wings News Network:
From its humble beginnings as a coal-handling facility to becoming one of the most modern and efficient ports in the country, Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL)’s journey is a testament to visionary leadership, technological innovation, and unwavering commitment to national development.
J.P. Irene Cynthia, IAS, Managing Director, KPL
As KPL steps into its 26th year, Port Wings met J.P. Irene Cynthia, IAS, Managing Director, who fuels the port’s growth story along with the able guidance of Sunil Paliwal, IAS, Chairman, KPL (and Chairperson of Chennai Port Authority). She spoke on the successful journey of the KPL over the years.
INDIA’S FIRST CORPORATISED MAJOR PORT
On KPL’s background, Irene Cynthia said, “Established in 1999 and commissioned in 2001, KPL was India’s first corporatised major port under the Companies Act. Located strategically on the Coromandel Coast, just 24 km north of Chennai, KPL was envisioned to serve the thermal coal needs of Tamil Nadu Electricity Board. Today, it stands as a multi-cargo port with a capacity of 58.44 MMTPA, handling coal, automobiles, containers, liquid bulk, LNG, and project cargo.”
On transformation, Irene Cynthia said, “The port’s transformation over the past 25 years has been nothing short of remarkable. With nine operational terminals, KPL has emerged as a preferred gateway for EXIM trade, serving industries across Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states.”
SEAMLESS ROAD AND RAIL CONNECTIVITY
On a question about KPL’s infrastructure, Irene Cynthia said, “KPL’s infrastructure is built for scale and efficiency. Deep draft berths, mechanised terminals, and seamless road and rail connectivity ensure minimal turnaround time and maximum throughput. The port’s internal road network spans over 21 km, while external connectivity is bolstered by projects like the Northern Port Access Road and Southern Port Access Road, improving access to industrial hubs and reducing congestion.”
On rail connectivity, Irene Cynthia said, “Rail connectivity has also been a cornerstone of KPL’s operational excellence. Integration with the national railway grid and the development of dedicated sidings have enabled efficient cargo movement, supporting industries and enhancing trade.”
KPL’S PIVOTAL ROLE IN INDIA’S ECONOMIC GROWTH
Speaking about KPL’s operational excellence and growth over the years, Irene Cynthia said, “From handling 3.40 million tonnes of cargo in 2001–02 to 48.41 million tonnes in 2024–25, KPL’s growth trajectory has been steep and sustained. The number of vessels handled rose from 71 to 986, and income surged from ₹30.94 crore to ₹1160.25 crore. These metrics reflect not just operational efficiency but also the trust KPL has earned from stakeholders, partners, and customers.”
Proudly speaking about KPL’s support in nation building, Irene Cynthia said, “KPL plays a pivotal role in India’s economic growth. It supports key sectors such as energy, automotive, petrochemicals, and manufacturing. The port facilitates the import of 26 million tonnes of coal annually, powering thermal plants and industries. It also handles 8 million tonnes of POL products, LPG, and LNG, ensuring energy security. On the export front, KPL has become a hub for automobile logistics. Over 24.28 lakh vehicles have been exported through its terminals, including electric vehicles by Citroën, marking India’s entry into global EV markets.”
COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY
On sustainability and Safety First factors, Irene Cynthia said, “KPL’s commitment to sustainability is embedded in its operations. It was the first major port to introduce mechanised coal handling with closed conveyor systems. The port has developed a greenbelt covering 636.14 acres, installed solar power plants, and adopted electric vehicles for internal transport.”
“Environmental monitoring is rigorous, with real-time air quality stations linked to CPCB and TNPCB. Wastewater is treated and reused, and shore power facilities to reduce emissions from docked vessels. Safety is paramount. KPL adheres to the Dock Workers Act, conducts regular drills, and maintains a 24/7 occupational health centre. Its oil spill contingency plan, developed post the 2017 incident, earned it the Samudri Paryavaran Sanrakshan Trophy in 2022,” adds Irene Cynthia.
GIVING BACK TO COMMUNITIES
Speaking about the port’s commitment towards community development, Irene Cynthia said, “KPL’s CSR initiatives have transformed lives. From building 30+ school buildings, 55 smart classrooms, and 75 water facilities, to upgrading hospitals and supporting mental health programs, KPL has invested over ₹100 crore in community development.
Projects like the construction of groynes at Ennore Creek have protected fishermen’s livelihoods and mitigated flood risks. Vocational training programs have empowered youth, and support for special children has brought hope to families.”
On accolades the port received so far, Irene Cynthia said, “KPL’s excellence has been recognized nationally and internationally. It was ranked the third Best Container Port in the World (Small Ports category) by the World Bank in 2023. It has received awards for operational performance, environmental stewardship, and inclusive procurement practices, including the CSR Special Commendation Award by The Economic Times and KPMG.”
KPL’S PARTICIPATION IN MARITIME EXCELLENCE
Speaking about KPL’s role in helping Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, Irene Cynthia said, “As KPL sails into its 26th year, it aligns with the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. The port’s Master Plan 2047 aims to increase cargo handling capacity to 254.52 MMTPA, with new terminals for containers, bulk cargo, and liquid cargo under PPP mode.”
“The development of an Outer Harbour with a 2.8 km quay length and 230 hectares of reclaimed land will further elevate KPL’s status as a mega port and the Eastern Gateway of India,” added Irene Cynthia.
KPL – SYMBOL OF INDIA’S MARITIME ASPIRATIONS
Congratulating the Team KPL, Irene Cynthia said, “Behind KPL’s success is a team of visionary leaders and dedicated professionals. From its founding CMDs to current leadership under Shri Sunil Paliwal, IAS (Chairman), the port has been steered with integrity, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.” “KPL’s journey is a story of transformation, resilience, and impact. As it enters its 26th year, KPL stands tall—not just as a port, but as a symbol of India’s maritime aspirations. It is a beacon of progress, a catalyst for economic growth, and a partner in community development.”
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