V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has invited global participation for the development of Existing Berth No.7 as a container terminal on a Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) basis for a concession period of 30 years, marking a significant step in expanding India’s maritime and container handling infrastructure.
Strategically located along a major international shipping corridor, the proposed terminal is expected to enhance the port’s container handling capabilities and support growing trade volumes from southern India. The initiative aligns with the country’s broader efforts to modernise ports and build future-ready maritime infrastructure under national port-led development initiatives.
The indicative project cost has been estimated at ₹517.19 crore. According to the port authority, the Request for Qualification (RFQ) document will be available from May 7, 2026, to June 22, 2026, inviting participation from global port operators and infrastructure developers.
The development of Berth No.7 is anticipated to strengthen Tuticorin’s position as a key container gateway on India’s eastern coast while improving operational efficiency, cargo evacuation, and connectivity for EXIM trade.