VOC Port Goes Global: The ₹517 Crore Terminal Transformation

The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has invited global bids for the upgradation of Berth No. 7 into a modern container terminal designed to handle large vessels with capacities of up to 12,100 TEUs and a draft of 14.20 metres.

The proposed project is estimated at ₹517 crore and will be developed under a Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model with a concession period of 30 years. Once operational, the upgraded terminal is expected to handle around 4.2 lakh TEUs annually, significantly boosting the port’s container handling capability.

The initiative aims to enhance India’s maritime logistics infrastructure and improve operational efficiency in container movement. The tender has been opened for global participation to attract experienced developers for the project.

As per the scope outlined in the tender, the work includes strengthening the existing berth structure with new piles, dredging the berth pocket to a depth of minus 16.5 metres, and installing modern marine infrastructure such as fenders, bollards, and utility systems.

The project also includes deployment of advanced cargo-handling equipment such as quay cranes, rubber-tyred gantry cranes (RTGCs), electric tractor trailers, and reach stackers, aimed at enabling faster, more efficient, and technology-driven container operations.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.