In line with the V. O. Chidambaranar (VOC) Port’s growing trade and cargo traffic, the port authority is strengthening its infrastructure and operational capabilities, with a focus on enhancing cargo handling, storage and evacuation facilities to support the evolving requirements of trade and industry.According to the press release, the port has handled 14.73 million tonnes of cargo, including 2.95 lakh TEUs of container traffic and 8.84 million tonnes of major bulk cargo, up to July 2026.The cargo traffic is projected to reach 48.30 million tonnes in the fiscal year 2027-2028, with 19.31 million tonnes of container cargo and 28.99 million tonnes of bulk cargo. Meanwhile, it is projected as 50.72 million tonnes in the financial year 2028-2029, comprising 20.28 million tonnes of container cargo and 30.44 million tonnes of bulk cargo. In 2029-2030, cargo traffic is projected to reach 53.25 million tonnes, with 21.29 million tonnes of container cargo and 31.96 million tonnes of bulk cargo.As part of the container infrastructure expansion, Berth No 7 is being upgraded into a modern container terminal at an estimated cost of ₹517.19 crore, with an annual handling capacity of 4.2 lakh TEUs. The 370 metre berth will have its draft increased from 11.7 metres to 14.20 metres to handle container vessels of up to 12,100 TEUs, and the project is scheduled for completion by 2029.Meanwhile, the development of Multi cargo Berth No 10 taken up at a cost of ₹87.38 crore is progressing steadily. The berth will have an initial capacity of four million tonnes per annum, with provision for enhancement to 10.22 million tonnes per annum upon the enhancement of draft to 14.20 metres. The project is targeted for completion by November 30, 2026.The port is also developing an additional 40 acre Custom Bond Area at a cost of ₹61.64 crore. This facility will augment bulk cargo stacking capacity and provide improved road connectivity to the upcoming green-hydrogen plant areas and stackyards of north cargo Berth-II and III.In addition, the port is also establishing a 3 MLD sea water reverse osmosis desalination plant at a cost of ₹72.66 crore and Seafarer club in VOC Wharf.Speaking on these developments, Susanta Kumar Purohit, chairperson, VOC Port Authority said the port’s ongoing development initiatives are aimed at enhancing cargo-handling efficiency and strengthening logistics infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of trade and industry. Published - August 28, 2026 09:19 pm IST