Deendayal Port handles over 160 million tonnes in 2026-26, the highest-ever in the history of Major Ports

In a landmark achievement that cements its legacy as India’s leading maritime gateway, Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla has crossed the historic 160 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) mark in cargo handling for the financial year 2025-26, achieving an unprecedented 160.11 MMT – the highest-ever cargo volume handled in the history of Major Ports.

Highlights

* India’s No. 1 Major Port: DPA has achieved the Numero Uno position among all Major Ports in the country.

* Best Performer: Leading all-India Major Ports with the highest cargo throughput.

* Unmatched Growth: Has grown from 150 million tonnes last year to 160 million tonnes this year, 7% Y-o-Y growth over a high baseline.

This monumental feat is a testament to the relentless efforts of the port’s leadership, employees, dock workers, trade unions, PPP operators, all stakeholders and dedicated Shramiks, who have contributed to making DPA a beacon of operational excellence and national pride, emphasised a release.

Commodity highs

There has been around 32% increase in handling of fertilisers, 23.4% increase in liquid cargo and 54% increase in container cargo. Other commodities that added to Kandla’s volumes were iron & steel (43% growth) and clay (17% growth). However, there has been a drop in certain commodities like timber (4.3% drop), salt (12.4%), crude & POL at Vadinar (5%) and coal (2.8%). Despite these reductions in certain commodities, the port compensated the shortfall by increased volume of container traffic, as well as fertiliser and liquid cargo.

The celebrations

To commemorate this remarkable milestone, celebrations were held at multiple locations:

* As a part of the celebration, port officials and employees gathered in a spirited atmosphere to acknowledge their hard work and shared success.

* Workers and Shramiks were provided with utility kits in recognition of their efforts towards achieving this milestone. 

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Sushil Kumar Singh, Chairman, Deendayal Port Authority, extended his heartfelt gratitude to all Port Users, Transporters, Stevedores, Shipping Agents, Customs Officials, Trade Unions, Port Officials, Employees, and above all, the dedicated Shramik brothers and sisters - the true partners in progress.

“Crossing the historic milestone of 160 million tonnes is not merely an achievement in numbers, but a reflection of the unwavering commitment, synergy and resilience of the entire port community. This accomplishment stands as a testament to our collective strength and our continuous pursuit of excellence. Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister and his focus on transforming India’s maritime sector, DPA Kandla is proud to contribute towards building a stronger, self-reliant and globally competitive maritime ecosystem,” he said.

This milestone reflects DPA’s commitment to the “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision of the Prime Minister and reinforces its role as a crucial pillar of India’s maritime and economic growth, said a release. 

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