Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla, has achieved a historic milestone by handling 160.11 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo in the financial year 2025–26, the highest ever recorded by any major port in India.
With this, DPA has secured the Numero Uno position among all major ports in the country, registering a 7% year-on-year growth over last year’s 150 MMT, despite a high base.
The growth was driven by strong performance across key cargo segments. Fertilizers recorded a 32% increase, liquid cargo rose by 23.4%, and container traffic surged by 54%. Iron & steel volumes grew by 43%, while clay cargo increased by 17%. However, declines were observed in timber (down 4.3%), salt (down 12.4%), crude & POL at Vadinar (down 5%), and coal (down 2.8%). The shortfall was effectively offset by higher volumes in containers, fertilizers, and liquid cargo.
Celebrations were held across the port to mark the achievement, with officials, employees, and workers participating. Utility kits were distributed to shramiks in recognition of their contribution.
Speaking on the occasion, Sushil Kumar Singh, Chairman, DPA, thanked all stakeholders including port users, transporters, stevedores, shipping agents, customs officials, trade unions, and employees. He said the milestone reflects the collective efforts and commitment of the entire port community and aligns with the national vision under Narendra Modi to strengthen India’s maritime sector.
The achievement reinforces DPA Kandla’s role as a key driver of India’s trade and logistics growth and a vital contributor to the vision of a globally competitive maritime ecosystem.