India has a coastline of over 4,000 miles and is one of the world’s largest Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ). The primary ports in India are 13 major harbors that are well connected and have state-of-the-art facilities.
These ports service vessels inbound from the Middle East, Europe, and Africa to the West. The main ships from the East sail from South East Asia, Japan, South Korea, and Australia.
Most ports in India are wholly state-owned, under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways. Private organizations may operate individual terminals and facilities in coastal states.
TOP 5 PORTS IN INDIA
#5 Port of Kolkata, (KoPT) West Bengal
Located in West Bengal, and once known as Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT), this port is one of the 12 major ports managed by the Indian government. One of the largest riverine ports in India, this port is located 125 miles inland and is the oldest major port in operation. The dry docks at KoPT are the largest in India and can handle smaller ship construction, as well as repairs for most vessels. Due to the location, maritime pilotage is required for ships over 200 GT. There are also lighthouses, light vessels, semaphores (for tide leveling), and other mechanisms to guide incoming vessels.
#4. V.O. Chidambaranar Port Trust, Tamil Nadu
Chidambaranar Port Trust is strategically situated close to the East-West International sea routes on the south-eastern coast of the country. Also known as the Tuticorin Port, VOCP is the 4th largest terminal in India and the second in the state. This port services vessels from China, Europe, Sri Lanka, the Mediterranean, and USA. It is certified ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 14001:2004 and is ISPS compliant.
#3. Port of Chennai, Tamil Nadu
This port is the largest on the Bay of Bengal coastline, as well as the third oldest port in India. Operational since 1881, the port has been a driving force behind trade and commerce in the region and is known as the “Gateway of South India.” It is home to the country’s first dedicated container terminal, which was launched in 1983. The port handles over 50 million tons of cargo, and expansion is underway to increase the capacity to 140 million tons.
#2. Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT)
Also known as Nhava Sheva, JNPT is the largest container port in India. Inaugurated in 1989, it processes nearly 55% of container cargo passing through the country. JNPT is ranked 28th amongst the world’s top container ports. The facilities include a customs house, connection to over 50 Inland Container Depots, and 30 Container Freight Stations.
#1. Mundra Port
As the largest private port in India, Mundra is a major hub for containers and bulk cargo. It is operated by Adani Ports and SEZ Limited and began operations in 2001. Mundra Airport is undergoing major developments to convert it into an international airport for air cargo. The port operates 10 berths for dry bulk, 3 for liquid bulk, 6 container berths, 3 mechanized import berths, and 2 for Single Point Mooring crude oil imports.
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) has been ranked first globally across all the Emerging Markets in the Transport & Logistics sector by Moody’s ESG Solutions in its latest assessment for 2022. The rating agency evaluated the company on a range of indicators, policies, processes, and systems covering Environment, Human Rights, Corporate Governance, Human Resources and Community Involvement.
