Tamil Nadu Port automation and green logistics drive takes centre stage at Chennai Shipping Conclave
Tamil Nadu is accelerating its push for sustainable and automated port operations, as part of a broader effort to transform maritime logistics. From onshore power supply to the induction of green tugs and development of a multi-modal logistics park, the State is positioning itself as a frontrunner in eco-friendly, tech-driven maritime infrastructure. These initiatives, led by the Chennai Port Authority and other stakeholders, are aligned with the National Logistics Policy and aim to boost operational efficiency while curbing environmental impact across Tamil Nadu’s ports.
Speaking at the sixth edition of the Southern Regional Shipping Conclave in Chennai, Sunil Paliwal, Chairman of the Chennai Port Authority, announced a series of landmark projects aimed at improving port automation and sustainability. The event was jointly organized by the Southern India Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) and the Association of Multimodal Transport Operators of India (AMTOI). Paliwal highlighted Tamil Nadu’s intent to modernize port operations through cleaner technologies and digital infrastructure. Among the most significant developments is the deployment of green tugs—eco-friendly tugboats designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions during port operations. These tugs are expected to drastically cut the carbon footprint of port activities in both Chennai and Kamarajar Ports.
Further, the Chennai Port Authority has become the first in India to attempt the provision of onshore power supply to commercial vessels at berth. This innovative move allows docked ships to plug into land-based electricity rather than running their diesel engines, reducing noise pollution and emissions in and around the port area. Paliwal also announced the completion of a modern parking plaza at Chennai Port, aimed at easing congestion and improving the traffic flow of cargo transporters. This infrastructure is part of a comprehensive strategy to enhance the overall user experience for logistics and shipping operators.
One of the most ambitious projects underway is the development of a Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP), which falls under the broader framework of the National Logistics Policy. Designed to support integrated cargo movement through rail, road, and sea, the first phase of this MMLP is expected to be operational by February 2026. The park is being built to reduce turnaround times, lower logistics costs, and streamline freight handling in the region. Addressing the conclave, Naveen Prakash, Chair of SICCI’s Supply Chain Management division and Director of Global Logistics, emphasized the transformational impact of emerging technologies in logistics. “What was once a sector largely dependent on manufacturing efficiencies is now rapidly evolving with the integration of automation, artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things, and real-time data platforms. These technologies are not only enhancing cross-functional efficiency and delivery accuracy but are fundamentally redefining logistics as we know it,” he noted.
On the human capital front, Bana Bihari Nayak, Managing Director of the Tamil Nadu Apex Skill Development Centre for Logistics, detailed the efforts being made to build a future-ready workforce. The centre, a State initiative, has trained over 1.84 lakh individuals so far, supporting schemes like Naan Mudhalvan to provide targeted upskilling programs in the logistics domain. These efforts are intended to meet the rising demand for skilled personnel across port operations, warehousing, and freight handling. The convergence of sustainable practices and digital innovation is reshaping the maritime and logistics ecosystem in Tamil Nadu. The State’s proactive approach has placed it at the forefront of India’s transition to cleaner and more efficient port infrastructure. These investments are expected to make Tamil Nadu a preferred logistics hub, especially for companies focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance.
However, industry experts at the conclave also cautioned about potential implementation challenges. Timely execution of infrastructure projects, skilled manpower availability, and policy alignment between central and state agencies were identified as key concerns. A coordinated, long-term policy vision and adequate public-private partnerships were cited as essential to maintaining momentum. Tamil Nadu’s push towards green logistics aligns with national and global trends focused on carbon neutrality, digital transformation, and resilient supply chains. With projects like the MMLP and onshore power systems setting new benchmarks, Chennai and its surrounding ports are expected to play a critical role in India’s maritime growth story over the next decade.
As the logistics landscape continues to evolve rapidly, Tamil Nadu’s policy-driven, infrastructure-backed, and skill-enhancing approach offers a model worth emulating for other coastal states seeking to modernize their port ecosystems.
