KARAIKAL
- Latitude: 10.8327 •
- Longitude: 79.8573 •
- East Coast India •
- Port in India
Address: Karaikal Puducherry 609602 India
Phone number: +91-4368-248000
Web-site: http://www.karaikalport.com
Karaikal Port: An Overview
Location:
Karaikal Port is located on the east coast of India, approximately 300 km south of Chennai and around 190 km southeast of Puducherry. The port is situated in the Union Territory of Puducherry, specifically in the district of Karaikal.
Coordinates:
Latitude: 10.8678° N
Longitude: 79.8612° E
Description
Ownership and Management:
Karaikal Port is a private deep-water port developed by Karaikal Port Private Limited (KPPL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MARG Limited. The port became operational in 2009 and aims to handle bulk, breakbulk, and container cargo.
Facilities and Infrastructure:
Berths:
- Number of Berths: The port consists of multiple berths catering to different types of cargo, including bulk, breakbulk, and containerized goods.
- Berth Dimensions: The length and draft of berths are designed to accommodate a wide range of vessel sizes.
Draft and Depth:
- Channel Depth: The depth can vary but generally ranges between 14.5 to 16.5 meters, making it capable of handling Panamax and Post-Panamax vessels.
- Turning Basin: Adequate facilities for safe maneuvering of large vessels.
Cargo Handling Equipment:
- Cranes: The port is equipped with various cranes such as mobile harbor cranes, gantry cranes, and other specialized handling equipment.
- Conveyors and Hoppers: Available for efficient bulk cargo handling, such as coal and iron ore.
Storage Facilities:
- Warehouses: Multiple warehousing facilities for different types of cargo.
- Open Yards: Spacious storage areas for bulk and breakbulk cargo.
- Liquid Storage: Infrastructure in place to handle liquid cargoes, including oil and chemicals.
Connectivity:
- Road: Well-connected via the road network, facilitating easy movement of goods to and from the hinterland.
- Rail: The port has its own dedicated rail siding, connected to the national railway network for seamless cargo transfer.
- Pipeline: Infrastructure for liquid bulk cargo, including pipelines for efficient transfer.
Services Offered
- Cargo Handling: Services for bulk (coal, iron ore, fertilizers), breakbulk (steel, project cargo), containers, and liquid bulk.
- Pilotage and Towage: Comprehensive marine services, including pilotage, towage, and other ship-related services.
- Customs and Clearance: In-house facilities for efficient customs clearance and documentation services.
- Bunkering and Freshwater Supply: On-site services to supply bunkers and freshwater to vessels.
- Repairs and Maintenance: Basic vessel repair and maintenance services.
Advantages
- Strategic Location: Positioned advantageously to serve the southern and eastern parts of India.
- Modern Facilities: Equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure for efficient cargo handling.
- Operational Efficiency: High turnaround times and professional management ensure smooth operations.
- Environmental Considerations: Implementing sustainable practices and pollution control measures.
Recent Developments and Future Plans
- Expansion Projects: Ongoing and planned projects to increase capacity and improve infrastructure (e.g., additional berths, enhanced rail and road connectivity).
- Technology Upgradation: Focus on incorporating modern technologies for smarter port operations.
Contact Information
Address:
Karaikal Port Private Limited,
Marine Drive Road,
Karaikal - 609 601,
Union Territory of Puducherry, India.
Website:
www.karaikalport.com
Contact Number:
Main office contact numbers are available on the official website for further inquiries.
Conclusion
Karaikal Port serves as a critical gateway for maritime trade on India's southeastern coast, equipped with robust infrastructure and offering comprehensive services to a variety of cargo categories. With continuous improvements and expansions, it is well-positioned to handle increasing trade demands efficiently.