Kamarajar Port Limited has completed its Capital Dredging Phase VI project with an investment of ₹440 crore, achieving an operational draft of 18.0 metres and making it India's second major port after Visakhapatnam Port with this capability. The project involved deepening the outer approach channel from 20.0 m to 23.0 m, the inner entrance channel from 19.0 m to 22.0 m, alongside berths to handle 18m draft, and the harbour basin with associated navigational areas.
This enhancement enables the port to handle fully laden Capesize vessels carrying cargo parcels of up to 170,000 DWT, positioning it in the league of international ports for bulk cargo handling. The increased draft capability is expected to lower logistical costs, improve cargo-handling efficiency, reduce freight costs through economies of scale, enhance ease of doing business, and strengthen India's EXIM trade competitiveness.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal stated that this achievement aligns with the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, representing a milestone in creating modern maritime infrastructure to power India's economic growth and global trade. The project was undertaken to make Kamarajar Port 'Cape Compliant' as part of the Government of India's vision for port modernization.