V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOC Port) has achieved its highest-ever single-day cargo handling of 217,332 tonnes, setting a new operational record on September 5, 2026. The achievement surpassed the previous record of 216,631 tonnes, recorded on February 18, 2026.
The latest record included a diverse mix of bulk, liquid and containerised cargo. Coal accounted for 62,466 tonnes, followed by 49,067 tonnes of thermal coal and 20,671 tonnes of limestone. Other cargo included sulphuric acid, palm oil, sugar, general cargo and windmill blades.
Containerised cargo contributed 66,927 tonnes, equivalent to 3,348 TEUs, underlining the port’s growing role in handling both bulk and container traffic.
VOC Port has also recorded growth in overall cargo volumes during the current financial year. In August 2026, the port handled 3.535 million tonnes, up 9.36% from 3.233 million tonnes in August 2025. Between April and August, cumulative throughput reached 18.27 million tonnes, compared with 17.89 million tonnes during the corresponding period last year, representing growth of 2.10%.
The port is undertaking several infrastructure projects to support further growth, including the conversion of Berth No. 7 into a container terminal, development of Multi Cargo Berth No. 10, mechanisation of North Cargo Berth-III and construction of a 40-acre Custom Bond Area.
VOC Port said the additional infrastructure is expected to increase cargo-handling capacity, improve cargo evacuation and strengthen the port’s position as a major maritime gateway on India’s east coast.