Indian Ports Expand To Accommodate Cape Size Ships Boost Transshipment Hub Status
India is aggressively pursuing its ambition to become a major regional transshipment powerhouse, with key ports rapidly deepening their drafts to accommodate the world’s largest vessels, including Cape-size ships. Historically, 75% of India’s transshipment cargo has been routed through foreign hubs, representing a significant missed economic opportunity. Through strategic policy initiatives and massive infrastructure investments, the nation aims to reclaim this cargo, enhance trade efficiency, and reduce dependency on overseas facilities.
Several major ports, including Kamarajar, Paradip, and Deendayal, are progressing towards achieving an 18-meter draft, essential for handling large Panamax and Cape-size vessels. These deep-draft capabilities are critical for directly receiving ships too large for certain canals, which typically carry bulk commodities like iron ore and coal. Additionally, the upcoming Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra is being developed as a world-class mega-port with a natural draft of 20 meters, projected to be among the top 10 global container ports upon completion with a planned capacity of 23 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units).
Further strengthening India’s maritime capabilities, the Galathea Bay Transshipment Port in Great Nicobar is designed as a deep-draft, greenfield port, expected to handle over 16 million TEU annually in its final phase. The Outer Harbour Container Terminal at VO Chidambaranar Port and the Tuna Tekra Terminal at Deendayal Port are also being developed with significant capacities. Kerala’s Vizhinjam International Seaport, a recently commissioned deep-water facility, is also strategically positioned to attract Indian transshipment cargo, aiming to handle all of it within a year and significantly reduce logistical costs.
These port developments are pivotal for India’s economic growth and global trade integration. By reducing reliance on foreign transshipment hubs, India strengthens its supply chain resilience and national revenue. This strategic shift towards accommodating larger vessels positions the nation as a formidable maritime player, promoting efficient, large-scale cargo movement globally.
