Dhamra Port sets national record for dry bulk cargo discharge in 24 hours

Dhamra Port in Odisha has established a new national benchmark in dry bulk cargo operations after recording 132,365 metric tonnes (MT) of cargo discharge within 24 hours, surpassing the previous Indian record of 127,867 MT. The milestone was achieved while unloading the Capesize vessel MV ASL OTSL2, reinforcing the port's position as one of India's most efficient deep-draft bulk cargo gateways.

The vessel carried 165,283 MT of coking coal imported from Queensland, Australia, for Tata Steel. In addition to the highest 24-hour discharge, Dhamra Port completed the unloading operation in just 38 hours, setting another national record for the fastest handling of a multi-grade coking coal shipment. The cargo included separate Goonyella and PCI coal grades, requiring precise segregation and coordinated yard planning throughout the operation.

Located on Odisha's east coast, Dhamra Port is equipped with deep-draft berths and highly mechanised cargo-handling infrastructure designed to accommodate large Capesize vessels. The port continues to expand its bulk cargo capabilities and has outlined plans to increase its annual cargo handling capacity to 100 million metric tonnes (MMT) by 2030, supporting India's growing steel and energy supply chains.

The latest achievement highlights the increasing importance of operational efficiency at Indian ports, where faster vessel turnaround and higher berth productivity are becoming critical factors in reducing logistics costs and strengthening the country's maritime competitiveness.