Chennai, 14 Oct 2026: Modi inaugu rated a set of key infrastructure projects at Chennai Port Authority during a visit to Chennai, with a total investment of Rs. 158 crore. The projects expand storage capacity, upgrade the cruise terminal and add a modern seafarers' club within the harbour area.
The initiatives reflect the govern ment's focus on build ing modern, efficient and future-ready port infrastructure, in line with the Viksit Bharat 2047 and Amrit Kaal visions. Together, they will strengthen storage, improve cruise passenger movement and facilitate trade.
Four E X I M godowns of 4,500 sq m e ach, adding 18,000 sq m of covered storage, were built at a cost of Rs. 51.81 crore and completed in Septem ber 2026. The port's existing 55,000 sq m of sheds and warehouses handles cargo such as steel coils for automakers, cement, fertilisers, food grains and pulses. The added capacity is expected to help the port retain existing cargo, attract new business and generate additional revenue.
Developed under the Sagar mala Programme at a cost of Rs. 43.55 crore, 9.9 hectares of paved storage yards now serve the Marshalling Yard and Jawahar Dock (East) backup areas. Completed in June 2026, the yards include stormwater drainage, electrifi cation, lighting, toilets and drinking water. They offer improved storage conditions for steel products, auto mobiles, project cargo and over-dimensional consignments, while boosting efficiency, drainage and dust control.
The Rs 46 crore upgrade of the cruise terminal has doubled its handling capacity from 400 to 800 passengers per hour. It features dedicated embarkation and disembarkation zones, around 28 immigration counters, customs areas, escalators, high-capacity lifts and barrier-free access. Passengers can now enjoy lounges with Karaikudistyle archi tectural elements, Wi-Fienabled waiting areas and digital information systems, backed by baggage scanners and CCTV surveillance. NBCC executed the work, which was completed in June 2026.
Built by NBCC at a cost of Rs .16.81 crore, the Seafarers' Club gives visiting seafarers and mari time personnel a comfor table space to rest and recharge. Facilities include accommoda tion rooms, a gym and sauna, indoor games, a library, a conference hall, a salon, a shopp ing area, a restobar and dining facilities.