Kamarajar Port (KPL) has achieved a major milestone with the successful completion of its Capital Dredging Phase VI project, increasing its operational draft capacity to 18 metres. With this development, KPL has become India’s second major port after Visakhapatnam Port to offer this deep-water capability.
The enhanced draft allows Kamarajar Port to handle larger vessels, including Capesize ships, significantly boosting its capacity for high-volume cargo operations. The port can now accommodate vessels carrying cargo parcels of up to 1,70,000 deadweight tonnes (DWT), strengthening its role in supporting large-scale maritime trade.
This expansion marks an important step in improving India’s port infrastructure by enabling faster, more efficient movement of goods. The increased capacity is expected to reduce operational limitations, improve vessel turnaround efficiency, and attract larger cargo traffic.
The completion of the dredging project further enhances KPL’s competitiveness among major ports and supports the growing requirements of industries dependent on bulk cargo movement.
As global shipping trends move toward larger vessels and higher cargo volumes, Kamarajar Port’s upgraded capabilities will play a key role in advancing India’s logistics network and maritime growth ambitions.
