Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla, has set a new national record, handling over 160 MMT of cargo in FY 2025-26. This achievement, a 7% YoY growth, solidifies its position as India's number one major port for cargo throughput.
A Historic Milestone in Cargo Handling
In a landmark achievement that cements its legacy as India's leading maritime gateway, Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla has crossed the historic 160 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) mark in cargo handling for the financial year 2025-26, achieving an unprecedented 160.11 MMT the highest-ever cargo volume handled in the history of Major Ports. The release stated that DPA has secured the position of India's number one major port. It is the best performer among all major ports in the country, leading in cargo throughput.
The port has demonstrated unmatched growth, increasing its cargo handling from 150 million tons last year to 160 million tons this year, marking a 7% year-on-year growth over an already high baseline. This monumental feat is a testament to the relentless efforts of the port's leadership, employees, dock workers, trade unions, PPP operators, all stakeholders and dedicated Shramiks, who have contributed to making DPA a beacon of operational excellence and national pride.
Commodity-wise Cargo Performance
There has been around a 32 per cent increase in fertilisers, a 23.4 per cent increase in liquid cargo and a 54 per cent increase in Container cargo. Other commodities that added to Kandla's volumes are Iron & Steel (43 per cent growth) & Clay (17 per cent growth). However, there has been a drop in certain commodities like Timber (4.3per cent drop), Salt (12.4per cent drop), Crude & POL at Vadinar (5 per cent drop) & Coal (2.8per cent drop). Inspite of these reductions in certain commodities, Kandla Port has compensated these shortfall by increased volume of Container traffic, Fertilizer and liquid Cargo at Kandla and has crossed 160.11 Million Tons.
Celebrations and Recognition
To commemorate this remarkable milestone, celebrations were held across multiple locations, where port officials and employees gathered in a spirited atmosphere to acknowledge their hard work and shared success. As a mark of appreciation, workers and shramiks were presented with utility kits in recognition of their efforts in achieving this milestone.
Leadership's Vision and Gratitude
While speaking on the occasion, Sushil Kumar Singh, Chairman, Deendayal Port Authority, extended his heartfelt gratitude to "all Port Users, Transporters, Stevedores, Shipping Agents, Custom Officials, Trade Unions, Port Officials, Employees and above all, our dedicated Shramik Brothers & Sisters - The True Partners in Progress."
"Crossing the historic milestone of 160 Million Tons is not merely an achievement in numbers, but a reflection of the unwavering commitment, synergy and resilience of the entire port community. This accomplishment stands as a testament to our collective strength and our continuous pursuit of excellence. Under the visionary leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister and his focus on transforming India's maritime sector, DPA Kandla is proud to contribute towards building a stronger, self-reliant and globally competitive maritime ecosystem," Singh added.
This milestone reflects DPA's commitment to the 'Viksit Bharat 2047' vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reinforces its role as a crucial pillar in India's maritime and economic growth.
(ANI)
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