Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated 7 infrastructure projects worth ₹427.80 crore at Paradip Port Authority, Odisha

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated 7 infrastructure projects worth ₹427.80 crore at Paradip Port Authority, Odisha

¨     Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated 7 infrastructure projects worth ₹427.80 crore at Paradip Port Authority, Odisha.

¨     The projects focus on improving port capacity, cargo handling and maritime transport infrastructure.

¨     The projects include capital dredging, a bridge, vessel traffic management and mechanisation-related agreements.

¨     Paradip Port is one of India’s major ports located on the eastern coast.

¨     It functions under the Paradip Port Authority.

¨     The port handles bulk cargo, container traffic and industrial shipments related to minerals, energy and fertilisers.

¨     A ₹352 crore capital dredging project was inaugurated.

¨     The project will create an 18.5-metre deep-draft facility.

¨     This will enable the port to receive fully laden Capesize vessels.

¨     Capesize vessels are large bulk carriers used in international maritime trade.

¨     The ₹24.89 crore Atharbanki Second New Bridge was also inaugurated.

¨     The bridge is 500 metres long and three lanes wide.

¨     It is designed to facilitate the movement of around 3,000 transport trucks daily.

¨     An Advanced Vessel Traffic Management and Information System was also inaugurated.

¨     The system has been developed in collaboration with IIT Madras’ National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts.

¨     Three mechanisation concession agreements worth ₹1,580.36 crore were signed.

¨     These agreements aim to reduce vessel turnaround time at Paradip Port.