Source: PIB
Subject: Mapping
Context: Paradip Port Authority (PPA) has achieved the fastest-ever 100 MMT cargo throughput in its history, and for the 9th consecutive year, crossing the 100 MMT mark—this time 12 days earlier than last fiscal.
About Paradip Port:
What is Paradip Port?
- Paradip Port is one of India’s Major Ports, operated by the Paradip Port Authority under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways.
- It is a key deep-water port on the eastern coast of India, handling large volumes of coal, POL, iron ore, steel, containerised cargo and coastal shipments.
Location: Located in Jagatsinghpur district, Odisha.
- Situated near the confluence of the Mahanadi River and the Bay of Bengal.
History:
- Foundation stone laid by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on 3 January 1962.
- Government of India took over management from the Odisha government on 1 June 1965.
- Declared the 8th Major Port of India on 18 April 1966—the first Major Port on the East Coast to be commissioned after Independence.
- Operates as an autonomous body under the Major Port Trusts Act, 1963, governed by a Board of Trustees.
Key Features:
- Handles a diverse cargo profile: coal (45% share), containers, steel, gypsum & flux, POL, and coastal cargo
- Consistent year-on-year cargo growth; achieved 100 MMT for 9 consecutive years
- Advanced mechanised cargo handling systems and improved operational efficiency
- Strong support from Indian Railways and coastal shipping networks
Significance:
- One of India’s top-performing Major Ports in cargo handling.
- Acts as a critical gateway for coal-based power plants, steel industries and mineral exports.
- Strengthens India’s coastal shipping ecosystem, reducing logistics costs.
- Enhances connectivity to the eastern industrial corridors.
