Chennai Port Achieves 50 MMT Cargo Milestone 18 Days Early in FY 2025-26
The Chennai Port Authority has marked a significant achievement in the current financial year, crossing the 50 million tonnes (MMT) cargo handling milestone on February 12, 2025. This accomplishment comes a full 18 days ahead of the previous year's schedule, when the port reached the same level on March 1, 2024. According to an official release issued on Thursday, this early achievement underscores substantial improvements in operational efficiency and a notable increase in cargo throughput.
Container Traffic Shows Robust Growth
Container traffic has been a standout performer, with the port handling 1.67 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) up to February 11. This figure surpasses last year's total of 1.56 million TEUs, representing a growth of just over 7%. The breakdown of the 50 MMT handled so far this fiscal year reveals that containers accounted for 32.27 MMT, crude cargo for 13 MMT, fertiliser for 0.358 MMT, and other cargo for 4.36 MMT.
Drivers of Growth Amidst Competition
Officials highlighted that this performance was achieved despite facing stiff competition from neighbouring major and private ports. The authority attributes the growth to strategic initiatives focused on digitisation drives and process rationalisation measures. These efforts are aimed at enhancing transparency and improving the ease of doing business, which have collectively contributed to the port's enhanced operational capabilities.
Leadership and Future Outlook
The port chairman expressed gratitude to trade bodies, users, stakeholders, and employees for their unwavering support. He conveyed strong confidence that cargo volumes will continue to grow through the remainder of the financial year, building on the current momentum. This milestone not only reflects the port's resilience but also its commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in the maritime logistics sector.
