Deendayal Port's Historic Multi-State Expansion

The Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Kandla is poised to make history as the first major port in India to expand operations beyond its home state, with strategic plans to take over and operate port terminals in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.

A senior DPA official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the ongoing negotiations: “We are in active discussions with certain ports in Maharashtra and Karnataka. Talks are also underway with the Gujarat Maritime Board to take over or collaborate on parts of their operations. The goal is to replicate the efficiency and performance we've achieved at Kandla.”

As part of the plan, DPA intends to “subsume select terminals” at these ports, broadening its national footprint. When asked about the nature of target ports, the official clarified: “We are ownership agnostic—we are open to acquiring or partnering with both government-owned and private ports.”

In FY2024, DPA handled over 150 million tonnes of cargo, making it the second-largest major port in India by volume, narrowly trailing Paradip Port for the second consecutive year. Through this multi-state expansion, DPA aims to strengthen its position in the Indian port sector, enhance cargo handling capacity, and drive nationwide operational growth.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.