Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) celebrated the 63rd National Maritime Day with a landmark announcement of record-breaking cargo performance and major strides toward green maritime operations.
At a press meet chaired by Chairman Sushil Kumar Singh, the port highlighted its achievements during FY 2025–26, underlining its growing significance in India’s maritime sector.
Record Cargo Throughput
DPA Kandla achieved an all-time high cargo handling of 160.11 million metric tonnes (MMT), making it the top-performing major port in India. The port registered a 7% year-on-year growth, up from 150 MMT last year.
Key cargo growth drivers included:
Fertilizers: up 32%
Liquid cargo: up 23.4%
Container traffic: surged 54%
Iron & Steel: up 43%
Clay: up 17%
Despite declines in commodities such as timber, salt, crude & POL, and coal, the port offset losses through strong gains in container, fertilizer, and liquid cargo segments.
Push Toward Green Shipping
In a significant sustainability milestone, DPA Kandla successfully conducted India’s first methanol bunkering (shore-to-ship) demonstration on April 2, 2026.
The initiative aligns with global decarbonisation goals and positions the port as a leader in alternative marine fuels. The project involved collaboration with major industry players including STOLT Tankers, J.M. Baxi, Aegis Vopak, and Indian Oil Corporation, with validation by DNV.
Key highlights:
Existing infrastructure compatible with methanol handling
Rated Level-6 on the IAPH Methanol Bunkering Readiness Scale
Plans to supply ~500 KTPA of e-methanol by 2028–29
Next phase to include ship-to-ship bunkering
Celebrations and Recognition
The occasion was marked by celebrations across the port, where employees and workers were honoured for their contribution. Utility kits were distributed to shramiks as a token of appreciation.
Leadership Remarks
Addressing the gathering, Chairman Sushil Kumar Singh said the milestone reflects the “collective strength, resilience, and commitment” of the entire port ecosystem. He emphasized that the achievement aligns with the vision of Narendra Modi for a “Viksit Bharat 2047”, reinforcing DPA Kandla’s role in advancing a self-reliant and globally competitive maritime sector.
Historical Significance
National Maritime Day commemorates the historic 1919 voyage of SS Loyalty from Mumbai to London, symbolizing India’s early steps toward maritime self-reliance.
