THOOTHUKUDI: Tuticorin International Container Terminal (TICT), located at V.O. Chidambaranar Port, has achieved Green Terminal status with the electrification of 100% of its operational equipment, marking a significant milestone in India’s transition towards cleaner, more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable port operations.
The milestone was marked by the flag-off of 13 Electric Internal Transfer Vehicles (E-ITVs) by Shri Vijay Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), during his visit to TICT. The induction of these electric vehicles further strengthens the terminal’s commitment to reducing emissions and promoting sustainable cargo-handling practices.
The Secretary was accompanied by Shri Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA); Shri Rajesh Soundararajan, IAS, Deputy Chairperson, VOCPA; and senior Port officials. During the visit, the delegation was briefed on the terminal’s infrastructure, operational capabilities and various initiatives undertaken to promote greener port operations.
The electrification of the terminal’s operational equipment represents an important step towards reducing dependence on conventional fuel-powered machinery, minimising direct emissions from cargo-handling activities and improving energy efficiency. The deployment of E-ITVs is expected to support cleaner movement of containers within the terminal while contributing to efficient and sustainable logistics operations.
The achievement also reinforces VOC Port’s broader efforts to integrate environmental responsibility with modern port infrastructure and operational excellence. As India’s maritime sector advances towards greener and more sustainable growth, the adoption of electric cargo-handling equipment is emerging as a key component of port modernisation and decarbonisation.
TICT’s Green Terminal status demonstrates how technological advancement and cleaner operational practices can complement one another to create more sustainable container-handling facilities. The initiative aligns with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways’ broader vision of promoting green ports, reducing the environmental footprint of maritime logistics and strengthening the sustainability of India’s port ecosystem.
With the induction of 13 E-ITVs and the complete electrification of its operational equipment, TICT has taken a significant step towards establishing a cleaner and more environmentally responsible model for container terminal operations, supporting India’s long-term maritime sustainability objectives.
