Modi to Inaugurate Coal Berth–3, Lay Foundation Stone for GCB–1 Upgradation Project at Kamarajar Port on 11 Oct.
Chennai:
Port Wings News Network:
Prime Minister NArendra Modi is all set to inaugurate Coal Berth–3 and lay the foundation stone for the Upgradation and Operation & Maintenance (O&M) of General Cargo Berth–1 (GCB–1) at Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) on 11 October 2026.
While Coal Berth–3 has been developed at a cost of ₹261.05 crore, the GCB–1 project is being undertaken at an estimated cost of ₹221 crore under the Public–Private Partnership (PPP) mode. These projects will strengthen the Port’s cargohandling infrastructure, improve operational efficiency and support Tamil Nadu’s growing energy and industrial requirements.
Coal Berth–3
Coal Berth–3 has been developed at a cost of ₹261.05 crore, with a handling capacity of 9 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). Operated by Tamil Nadu Power Generation Corporation Limited (TNPGCL) on a captive basis, the berth is designed to handle Capesize vessels with a draft of up to 18 metres.
Equipped with two ship unloaders of 2,000 tonnes per hour (TPH) each and a 4,000 TPH conveyor system, the berth will facilitate efficient coal handling and direct evacuation to the North Chennai Thermal Power Plants. The facility will support a reliable coal supply for power generation and strengthen energy security in the region.
Upgradation and Operation & Maintenance of General Cargo Berth–1 (GCB–1) under the PPP Mode
Prime Minister is also scheduled to lay the foundation stone for the Upgradation and Operation & Maintenance (O&M) of General Cargo Berth–1 (GCB–1) at Kamarajar Port Limited under the Public–Private Partnership (PPP) Mode, at an estimated cost of ₹221 crore.
With a capacity of 3 MTPA, the project aims to modernise and mechanise the existing berth to improve cargo-handling efficiency, increase cargo throughput and diversify the commodities handled. It is also expected to reduce vessel turnaround time and enhance operational productivity.
The project will promote private sector participation, strengthen logistics efficiency and improve the competitiveness of Kamarajar Port.
Supporting Tamil Nadu’s Maritime and Industrial Growth
Located along the Coromandel Coast, Kamarajar Port is a diversified, multicommodity major port with 10 operational berths and a total handling capacity of 67.44 MTPA. During FY 2025–26, the Port handled 49.08 million tonnes of cargo, including dry bulk, break bulk, liquid bulk, containers, automobiles, project cargo and LNG, among other commodities.
The inauguration of Coal Berth–3 and the laying of the foundation stone for the GCB–1 upgradation project represent important milestones in strengthening Kamarajar Port’s infrastructure and operational capabilities. While Coal Berth–3 will support the reliable supply of coal to power generation facilities, the GCB–1 project will modernise existing facilities, expand cargo-handling capabilities and improve operational efficiency.
Together, these projects will reinforce Kamarajar Port’s role in supporting Tamil Nadu’s energy security, industrial development and maritime logistics, contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
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