PARADIP: The Paradip Port Authority set a new record by handling 116.13 million tonnes of cargo in the fiscal year 2021-22, surpassing the previous high of 114.55 million tonnes set in the fiscal year 2020-21.

Officials claimed that despite a 30% decline in iron ore traffic due to weak demand and worldwide market circumstances, they were able to increase cargo handling by focusing on other commodities.

By implementing new operational norms, the port handled 38% more thermal coal through coastal cargo movement in 2021-22. The port’s operating surplus moved up by ten percent, while its operating margin reached to sixty percent. The Paradip Port Authority commissioned a new coal import terminal, having 15 MMTPA capacity, at a cost of Rs.650 crore. This terminal is installed with world-class cargo handling systems and can improve the import of coal and other dry bulk cargo through Paradip.