Kochi’s Vallarpadam International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) recorded a record-breaking throughput of over 81,000 TEUs in June 2025, a 35 % surge compared to May. Handling 54 vessels—including multiple mother ships—the terminal’s performance cements its critical role in linking India to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Far East shipping lines through direct mainline services.
The 35 % growth in a single month reflects DP World Cochin’s operational resilience and its deepening integration into global maritime supply chains. In FY 2024‑25, the terminal surpassed 834,665 TEU handled—an 11 % year-on-year rise—supported by enhanced infrastructure and electrification drives. This latest monthly record exemplifies how ongoing upgrades and sustainable investments are paying dividends. A significant enabler of this performance is the recent power capacity enhancement—from 3 MVA to 5 MVA—alongside full electrification of yard equipment. These measures ensure round-the-clock operations, reduce carbon emissions, and provide customers with a green logistics advantage. The terminal’s commitment to sustainability echoes India’s broader net-zero ambitions, showing how ports can lead climate-conscious supply chains.
Kochi’s terminal, with its strategic coastal connectivity from Gujarat to Kolkata, serves as a pivotal hub for coastal container movement between India’s east and west coasts. It also hosts Kerala’s first Free Trade Warehousing Zone (FTWZ) within a major port—facilitating export-import trade and regional economic development. The June peak also included the handling of ultra large container vessels, reinforcing Kochi’s growing capability to manage large-scale maritime traffic. CEO Praveen Joseph highlighted the milestone as a reflection of customer trust and the terminal’s operational efficiency, emphasising the terminal’s role in enabling sustainable and resilient supply chains.
While this port’s success aligns with DP World’s global strategy—evident in its burgeoning electric fleets elsewhere competition looms from emerging terminals like Vizhinjam, which promises higher automation and natural depth advantages. Yet, DP World Cochin remains uniquely placed with proven infrastructure, strong connectivity, and green credentials. As India’s maritime sector continues its transformation, Kochi’s June performance sends a strong message: when ports combine strategic location, eco‑focused upgrades, and operational excellence, they can drive both national trade and sustainable urban economies. For now, the Vallarpadam terminal stands tall—but it must continue to innovate to stay ahead amid evolving regional competition.
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