VOC Port Sets ₹5,720 Crore Harbour Expansion Plan for Large Ships.

The VO Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOC Port) in Thoothukudi is set to take up a ₹5,720-crore project to deepen its harbour basin and approach channel, aimed at enabling the port to accommodate larger container, bulk and tanker vessels while strengthening its competitiveness against regional ports.

The project will increase the port’s draught - the depth of water required for a ship to float - to 15.2 metres from the current 12.8 metres. It also includes modifications to the port entrance, construction of six new berths and the upgradation of existing berths, according to sources.

Once completed, the enhanced depth will allow the port to handle fully laden Panamax vessels carrying around 85,000–90,000 tonnes of dry bulk and general cargo, as well as large container ships with capacities of up to 14,000 TEUs.

The upgrade is expected to significantly boost the port’s cargo handling capability and position it as a stronger hub for international maritime trade.