Cargo Traffic at Major Ports Increases by 3.5% as Infrastructure Expansion Accelerates
India’s maritime sector has witnessed a positive growth trajectory, with cargo traffic at major ports increasing by 3.5% in the fiscal year 2023-24, amounting to 819.23 million tonnes. This growth represents a significant leap from 581.34 million tonnes in 2014-15, reflecting the country’s ongoing efforts to bolster its port infrastructure and improve connectivity to drive economic development. The announcement was made by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, who highlighted the integral role infrastructure expansion plays in achieving this impressive rise.
The cargo traffic handled at Indian ports consists of various types of goods, with dry bulk accounting for 44.04%, liquid bulk comprising 33.80%, and container cargo contributing 22.16%. The increase in overall cargo handled underscores the growing importance of Indian ports in global shipping and trade. Sonowal further pointed out that this surge in cargo traffic comes as a direct result of infrastructure development projects currently underway at major ports across the nation. These initiatives include constructing new ports and terminals, mechanising existing docks, improving both road and rail connectivity, and carrying out capital dredging to deepen drafts, enabling the accommodation of larger vessels. The continuous infrastructure expansion is vital not only to enhance port capacity but also to meet the growing demand for handling a more diversified range of cargo. The government’s push for modernising port facilities aligns with its broader vision to strengthen the logistics sector, which plays a pivotal role in India’s economy.
A central element of the development plan is the Comprehensive Port Connectivity Plan (CPCP), prepared by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) in September 2022. The CPCP identifies 107 road and rail connectivity gaps, based on consultations with major ports, state maritime boards, and the Ministries of Railways and Road Transport and Highways. This ambitious plan aims to improve connectivity and streamline the movement of cargo from ports to inland destinations, thereby reducing transit times and improving operational efficiency. Ongoing investments in improving port infrastructure are set to further enhance India’s competitive edge in global trade. These initiatives also reflect a long-term commitment to transforming India’s ports into world-class facilities that are capable of handling increasing cargo volumes as international shipping traffic grows.
A breakdown of the cargo handled over the past few years demonstrates the sector’s steady growth. In the fiscal year 2020-21, major ports handled 672.68 million tonnes of cargo, while non-major ports managed 575.04 million tonnes, bringing the total to 1,247.72 million tonnes. By 2023-24, cargo at major ports surged to 819.23 million tonnes, with non-major ports handling 721 million tonnes, pushing the total cargo handled across all ports to 1,540.23 million tonnes. These figures indicate not only a consistent upward trend in overall cargo traffic but also the growing importance of non-major ports in contributing to the nation’s maritime growth. This diversification in port activity further supports the government’s focus on creating a more balanced and resilient logistics ecosystem. Looking ahead, continued investment in port infrastructure is essential to keeping pace with global shipping trends and the country’s rising import-export activities. The deepening of port channels, mechanisation of terminals, and enhanced connectivity will help ensure that India’s major ports remain competitive on the international stage.
As India positions itself as a key player in global maritime trade, the focus on port development and capacity expansion is expected to yield even greater benefits for the economy. The government’s commitment to improving port infrastructure through targeted projects and strategic planning is setting the stage for future growth and helping India maintain its position as one of the world’s leading maritime nations. India’s ports are experiencing a period of significant growth, with cargo traffic increasing steadily year on year. The government’s focus on infrastructure development, capacity expansion, and improved connectivity is essential in supporting this growth, ensuring that ports are equipped to handle the demands of global trade. With ongoing projects aimed at modernising port facilities and streamlining cargo handling, India is well on its way to reinforcing its position in the global maritime industry.
