The Chennai Port Authority recorded a 7.5 per cent increase in cargo volumes in 2025, driven primarily by growth in container traffic and improvements in operational efficiency, Chairperson S. Viswanathan said on Monday, signalling a turnaround at one of India’s oldest major ports amid intensifying regional competition.
The port also achieved multiple all-time single-day cargo handling records during the year and significantly reduced vessel turnaround times, enhancing throughput capacity without the need for immediate large-scale physical expansion.
Speaking after presiding over Republic Day celebrations at the Babu Jagjivan Ram Sports Complex in Tondiarpet, Viswanathan said the rollout of Enterprise Business Solutions across port operations had simplified procedures, digitised workflows, and reduced transaction-related friction for port users.
“Integrated digital systems are now embedded in day-to-day operations, contributing to measurable efficiency gains,” he said.
The chairperson highlighted the port’s expanding role in automobile exports, with the successful execution of simultaneous vessel operations and the scaling up of automobile-handling logistics. This segment is expected to gain further momentum as southern India strengthens its position as a vehicle manufacturing and export hub.
On sustainability, Viswanathan said the port is steadily transitioning from diesel-powered equipment to electric machinery. The induction of green tugs forms part of a broader strategy to future-proof port infrastructure against climate risks and align operations with India’s maritime decarbonisation goals.
Beyond core port activities, the Chennai Port Authority has undertaken several community-focused initiatives, including welfare measures at the Tondiarpet Housing Colony, upgrades at the Port Hospital, and the introduction of a meal scheme for Class X and XII students at the Chennai Port and Dock Educational Trust School.
Scholarships to promote maritime education and sailing skills were also announced, along with the expansion of Swabodhini School for Special Children, which now supports more than 1,000 children with autism.
Looking ahead, Viswanathan outlined an ambitious investment pipeline that includes a multi-level car parking facility and major interlinked infrastructure projects such as the Maduravoyal elevated double-decker expressway, the Multimodal Logistics Park at Mappedu, and the long-pending Outer Harbour Project involving significant land reclamation.
The cruise terminal, he added, is expected to become operational shortly, positioning Chennai to capitalise on cruise-led maritime tourism.
The Republic Day ceremony was attended by S. Murali Krishnan, IDAS, Chief Vigilance Officer, members of the port board, departmental heads, employees, trade union representatives, and students and staff from port-run educational institutions.