Paradip: Odisha’s Paradip Port has achieved a major maritime milestone by successfully berthing the massive MV Mineral Kwangyang, becoming the first Capesize vessel with a 16.5-metre draft to be berthed at the port’s Western Dock No. 1.
The successful operation marks an important step in Paradip Port’s efforts to enhance its deep-draft handling capabilities and prepare for larger cargo vessels, strengthening its position as a major maritime gateway on India’s eastern coast.
292-Metre Vessel Carries Over 1.5 Lakh Tonnes Of Coal
The 292-metre-long MV Mineral Kwangyang arrived at Paradip from Hay Point Port in Australia, carrying approximately 152,702 metric tonnes of coking coal.
The vessel was successfully berthed at Western Dock-1 on a trial basis, ahead of the planned inauguration of the berth by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The successful berthing demonstrated the operational readiness of the newly developed dock to accommodate significantly larger vessels with deeper drafts.
Major Boost To Paradip Port’s Deep-Draft Capabilities
Capesize vessels are among the largest bulk carriers regularly used for transporting commodities such as coal and iron ore. Their substantial size and deep draft require ports to have adequate water depth and specialised infrastructure.
The successful berthing of MV Mineral Kwangyang at a draft of 16.5 metres therefore represents a significant improvement in Paradip’s ability to handle large bulk cargo vessels.
The development is expected to help reduce operational limitations associated with vessel size and draft while improving cargo-handling efficiency at the port.
Sarbananda Sonowal Hails Maritime Milestone
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal described the achievement as a significant milestone for Paradip Port.
He said the successful berthing of the first-ever Capesize vessel at Western Dock-1 reflected the ongoing efforts to modernise India’s ports and strengthen their deep-draft capabilities.
Sonowal also highlighted the government’s focus on improving logistics, facilitating faster trade and supporting regional economic growth through modern port infrastructure.
Paradip Targets 18.5-Metre Draft
Having successfully handled the 16.5-metre-draft vessel, Paradip Port is now looking towards an even higher benchmark.
The port authorities have set their sights on successfully berthing vessels with a draft of 18.5 metres in the coming days.
Achieving the target would further enhance Paradip’s ability to accommodate larger vessels and could expand its capacity to handle high-volume cargo movements.
Strengthening Odisha’s Position In Maritime Trade
Paradip Port plays a crucial role in the movement of bulk commodities through eastern India. Its ability to handle increasingly large vessels can improve economies of scale in maritime transportation and potentially contribute to more efficient cargo movement.
The latest achievement also comes at a time when India is focusing on expanding port capacity, improving logistics infrastructure and reducing turnaround times for ships.
The successful trial berthing of MV Mineral Kwangyang at Western Dock-1 is therefore being viewed as an important step in Paradip’s continuing infrastructure development.
With the 18.5-metre draft target now in sight, the port’s latest achievement signals its ambition to handle larger and deeper-draft vessels and further strengthen its role in India’s maritime trade network.
