Minister for public works (buildings, highways, and minor ports) E V Velu sought financial assistance from the union government to develop nonmajor ports of the state. Speaking at a roadshow for the upcoming three-day Global Maritime India Summit, Velu said the VOC port expansion project has helped boost the economy and job creation. Similarly, more ports should be recognised and funded for development, he added.
Chennai Port Authority chairperson Sunil Paliwal said that addressing capacity constraints at ports was important to maintain competitiveness in handling large shipments.
Among India’s 12 major ports, three are located in TN. “It is important to call for investments in ports as the state has access to the peninsular coastline and is a desirable destination for cruise tourism,” said S Krishnan, additional chief secretary, industries, investment promotion and commerce department.
These ports are responsible for supplying coal to thermal power plants. “The Centre wants to promote the state as a bunker hub. A series of projects are underway to achieve this,” said Sarbananda Sonowal, Union minister for ports, shipping and waterways.