Trichy MP Durai Vaiko on Monday submitted a representation to Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, seeking the establishment of a dry port (inland container depot) in Trichy to boost exports from the region.
The MP highlighted that trade and export organisations have long demanded a dry port in Trichy, given its strategic location. “Approximately 50 containers, each carrying 25 tonnes, are transported from Trichy by road every month to major harbours. Exporters face high transport costs and time constraints. A dry port in Tirupur has already proven beneficial for the Coimbatore-Tirupur region,” he said.
Citing data from the National Horticulture Board of India, Vaiko noted that Trichy produces 112.6 million tonnes of fruits and 204.9 million tonnes of vegetables annually, much of which is exported to Singapore, Malaysia, the UAE, and Sri Lanka through Trichy airport.
He added that the Union Road Transport Ministry would also be urged to take necessary steps for the project.
Later, the MP met Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and requested the construction of a railway overbridge (RoB) to replace a manned level crossing on the Keeranur-Trichy-Karaikudi section, which would benefit nearly 45 villages.