In a major push to expand maritime infrastructure, the Chennai Port Authority (ChPA) is reviving its long-pending outer harbour project, pegged at an estimated cost of ₹8,000 crore (₹80 billion). The development aims to significantly enhance container handling capacity and support India’s growing trade volumes.
According to ChPA Chairperson Sunil Paliwal, a techno-feasibility study will soon be initiated. The project includes a 2-kilometre-long container berth and reclamation of nearly 200 acres for supporting infrastructure. “We are constantly working to upgrade our services,” he stated on Thursday.
The outer harbour project has had a long journey — this marks its third revival attempt since the initial proposal in 2007.
Project Highlights
- Estimated Cost: ₹8,000 crore (US$ 960 million approx.)
- Capacity Boost: Aimed to support mega container vessels
- New Infrastructure: 2-km berth + 200-acre land reclamation
- PPP Model Expected: Likely to attract private investments under DBFOT
- Previous Attempts:
- 2007: Proposal for a 4 million TEU mega container terminal dropped due to recession
- 2013-14: Repackaged as multipurpose cargo terminal but failed to attract bidders
- Connected Project: First phase of India’s greenfield Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) at Mappedu expected to be operational by mid-April 2026
Strategic Significance
This project is poised to transform Chennai Port into a next-generation logistics and container hub, aligning with India’s broader push to modernize port infrastructure under the Sagarmala initiative. It could also decongest existing terminals and enable direct berthing of large vessels, reducing transshipment dependency on foreign ports.