The Business Bytes
PARADIP, APRIL 05, 2024 (TBB BUREAU): In an unprecedented milestone marking its 57-year history, Paradip Port has ascended to the position of the country’s number one major port. This historic achievement, announced by Paradip Port Authority (PPA) Chairman, PL Haranadh, underscores the unwavering support and indomitable spirit of the PPA collective.
Addressing the 61st National Maritime Day celebrations held at PPA’s marine site office here on Friday, Haranadh expressed gratitude to the dedicated efforts of the Paradip Port Family, which made this remarkable feat possible.
Haranadh extolled the indomitable spirit of the Paradip Port family, which propelled it to the pinnacle of success, making it the No.1 Major Port in the country for the first time in its 57-year history of operation, surpassing records set by Deendayal Port. He attributed this remarkable achievement to a slew of business development activities and system improvement measures implemented in recent years, which yielded significant results.
PPA’s exemplary performance accounted for a staggering 30 per cent overall growth in traffic among all major ports in FY 2023-24. Despite offering the cheapest tariffs, the port maintains the highest berth productivity among all major ports. Haranadh also highlighted India’s rising prominence in the maritime sector, with the country currently accounting for over 12 per cent of the world’s total seafarers, a figure projected to increase to 20 per cent by 2030.
Urging the youth to explore the vast employment opportunities that the maritime sector holds for the future, Haranadh emphasized the pivotal role it plays in shaping the nation’s economy.
PPA Deputy Chairman Nilabhra Dasgupta, who graced the event as the Guest of Honour, likened the marine department to the heart of a human body, emphasizing the significant contribution of the seafarers’ community in propelling PPA towards new milestones in the years to come.
AK Bose, Advisor of Traffic, and Capt. AC Sahoo, Deputy Conservator of PPA, also shared their insights during the event.
In a special moment, Capt. Tusharkanti Sahu, Master Mariner, was felicitated for his tireless service and stellar contribution to the Indian Maritime Industry.
Coinciding with the National Maritime Day celebrations, competitions including swimming, heaving line throw, and rope climbing were organized, with winners receiving accolades. Capt. Indranil Mukherjee, Harbour Master, delivered the welcome speech, while Bablu Sikdar, Sr. Marine Engineer, extended the vote of thanks, encapsulating the spirit of camaraderie and excellence that defines Paradip Port’s journey in the maritime domain.
