Kandla Port, managed by the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), is poised for a transformative infrastructure upgrade with an investment of ₹57,000 crore, DPA chairman Sushil Kumar Singh said. Announced on April 07, 2025, The big goal of this project is to bring the port up to date and make it fit with India’s plans to become a developed country Viksit Bharat 2047. The upgrades will enhance capacity, boost trade, and establish Kandla as a global maritime hub.
Historic Milestone in Cargo Handling
In the financial year 2024-25—a record-breaking period—Kandla Port handled 150.16 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo. This achievement reflects a 13% year-on-year growth, surpassing the national average of 4.34% among major ports. Celebrated in Gandhidham, this milestone underscores DPA’s leadership in India’s maritime sector and sets the stage for further expansion.
A Massive Shipbuilding Complex
A cornerstone of the investment is a ₹30,000 crore mega shipbuilding complex sprawling over 6,000 acres. This facility will focus on constructing Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) and other large vessels, which can build 32 new ships and repair 50 annually. Alongside shipbuilding, the complex will feature a marina, fishing harbor, integrated townships, and a marine industrial cluster, making it one of Asia’s most advanced maritime hubs.
New Port Development
The upgrade includes a new port outside Kandla Creek, utilizing a 6 km waterfront. This development, part of an initiative, will add significant cargo-handling capacity, including 25 MTPA for multipurpose cargo and 10 MTPA for specialized operations. DPA aims to enhance efficiency and accommodate growing trade demands by restructuring the port’s layout.
Sustainability Through Green Hydrogen
In line with India’s Green Hydrogen Mission, a 1-megawatt (MW) electrolyzer manufactured by L&T has been deployed at Kandla to establish a Green Hydrogen Plant. This initiative, flagged by Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, marks a leap toward sustainable port operations. Plans are underway to scale this to a 10 MW capacity, reinforcing DPA’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Aligning with National Goals
The ₹57,000 crore investment reflects DPA’s vision to modernize systems and prepare for a future-ready maritime India. While the port handles 70 MMT of cargo annually, these upgrades will significantly boost its capacity and operational efficiency. By integrating advanced infrastructure and sustainable technologies, Kandla Port is paving the way for India’s economic growth and global trade prominence by 2047.
