Kandla Port Creates History with Record Cargo Handling
Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Kandla has achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the fastest major port in India to handle 100 million tonnes of cargo during the current financial year 2025-26. The port accomplished this significant feat much earlier than in previous years, demonstrating exceptional growth in India's maritime sector.
Impressive Growth Across Multiple Cargo Categories
The port recorded an impressive 6.78% year-on-year growth, highlighting sustained momentum in cargo movement operations. According to DPA Chairman Sushil Kumar Singh, several cargo categories witnessed substantial increases compared to the same period last year.
The most significant growth was observed in fertilizers, which saw an 81.43% increase, followed by iron and steel with a 50% rise. Containerized cargo demonstrated strong performance with a 61.4% growth, while petroleum, oil, and lubricants (POL) at Kandla increased by 34.77%. Wooden logs also showed healthy growth with a 22.44% increase in handling volume.
Strategic Importance and Future Implications
DPA Kandla attributes this achievement to the port's exceptional operational efficiency, robust cargo-handling capabilities, and seamless coordination among all stakeholders and port users. The early achievement of the 100 MMT milestone positions DPA Kandla at the forefront of India's maritime growth story, strengthening its reputation as the country's most reliable gateway for EXIM trade.
The port's ability to handle rising cargo volumes across diverse segments including liquid, dry bulk, break-bulk, and container cargo aligns perfectly with the government's Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision. This vision aims to develop world-class port-led infrastructure that can support India's growing economic needs.
This milestone significantly supports the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, demonstrating how infrastructure development can drive economic progress. DPA Kandla continues to maintain its position as India's top-performing major port, leading the sector through speed, scale, and skill in operations.
The early achievement of this cargo handling record not only highlights the port's operational excellence but also indicates growing economic activity and trade volumes through India's western coastline. This performance sets a new benchmark for other major ports in the country to emulate.
