Significant Developments Unveiled
During his maiden visit to Paradip Port Authority (PPA), T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), inaugurated and laid the foundation for several key projects totalling over Rs 13 crore. This visit marks a substantial step forward in enhancing the port’s infrastructure and services.
Inauguration of Trauma and Burn Care Centre
One of the highlights of Ramachandran’s visit was the inauguration of the Trauma and Burn Care (TBC) Centre, located in the newly constructed Annex building of Paradip Port Hospital. Built at a cost of Rs 2.90 crore, this state-of-the-art facility is set to provide essential curative and rehabilitative services to trauma and burn victims. The TBC Centre will serve the Paradip region and its surrounding areas, significantly improving healthcare access and quality.
Foundation Stone for New Water Treatment Plant
In addition to the healthcare facility, Ramachandran laid the foundation stone for a new Water Treatment Plant, with an investment of Rs 10.50 crore. The plant is expected to process raw water from the Taldanda Canal and will have a daily filtration capacity of 16 million litres. Scheduled for completion by December 2024, this plant aims to bolster Paradip Port’s water infrastructure and ensure the supply of clean, potable water to the Port Township’s residents.
Operational Review and Future Visions
During his visit, Ramachandran conducted a thorough review of the port’s operations and infrastructure. He interacted with Heads of Departments and Deputy Heads, inspecting key facilities such as the Mechanized Coal Handling Plant, Twin Wagon Tipplers at JSWPTPL, and KICT silos. His review led to suggestions for system improvements aimed at enhancing productivity and overall port performance.
In the fiscal year 2023-24, Paradip Port achieved a milestone by becoming the highest cargo handling port, recording a throughput of 145.38 million metric tonnes (MMT). The ambitious Vision 2047 plan targets increasing the port’s handling capacity to 10,000 MTPA. This plan envisions transforming all major ports into mega ports by 2047, with significant infrastructure upgrades and efficiency improvements.
Strategic Development Goals
The ongoing Sagarmala programme, designed to increase port capacity to 3,500 MMT by 2035, aligns with the Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030. MIV 2030 outlines a strategic investment of Rs 1-1.25 lakh crore to develop global standard ports in India. This vision aims to enhance port infrastructure, reduce turnaround times, and boost handling capacities, setting the stage for India’s maritime growth in the coming decades.
(With inputs from agencies)
