Kamarajar Port will upgrade GCB-1 for clean cargo handling via a public-private partnership, boosting capacity and efficiency.
Kamarajar Port in North Chennai is set to upgrade its General Cargo Berth-1 (GCB-1) through a public-private partnership aimed at handling clean and non-polluting cargo, according to reports from Chennai's Hindu daily.
The project, with a capital cost of INR 221 billion (US$ 2.4 billion), will enhance the berth's annual capacity to three million tonnes. Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) has issued a tender inviting private firms to qualify for the Upgradation, Equipping, Operations, Maintenance, and Transfer concession.
Originally built in 2012 at a cost of INR 140 billion, GCB-1 was designed primarily for car exports and general cargo, featuring parking space for 14,700 cars. With automobile handling now shifting to GCB-2, which was commissioned in January 2024, GCB-1 will be redeveloped specifically for clean cargo.
The berth measures 278 metres in length and 27.5 metres in width, although environmental clearance currently specifies dimensions of 250 metres by 35 metres. KPL will provide 8.44 hectares of backup storage within the port premises.
The concessionaire will be responsible for upgrading the berth, which includes replacing fenders, installing cargo-handling equipment such as mobile harbour cranes, reach stackers, forklifts, and tractor trailers, as well as developing the yard. The concession period will last for 30 years, including two years allocated for construction.
Kamarajar Port has a total cargo capacity of 58 million tonnes per annum and handled 48 million tonnes in FY25. Industry sources indicate that the GCB-1 upgrade will significantly boost clean cargo volumes and help divert traffic from Chennai Port, which currently manages the majority of the region's clean cargo.
