“Green Hydrogen, Digital Twin and Outer Harbour Projects Propel VOC Port into Next-Gen Maritime Hub”: Sarbananda Sonowal
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : Union MoPSW Shri Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOC Port), Tuticorin, Maritime Heritage Museum. VOC Port has emerged as a leader in sustainable maritime operations and became the first Indian port to produce and use green hydrogen on-site. A pilot project has been operational since late 2025, with plans for commercial-scale development by 2029. Officials said integrated renewable initiatives, green methanol facilities and partnerships in e-ammonia and carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) are positioning the port as a future-ready green fuel bunkering center.
On the technology front, the port has deployed India’s first comprehensive Digital Twin platform for real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance and data-driven optimisation. An anti-drone system has also been installed to strengthen security of critical infrastructure.
Sonowal ji said, “At V.O.C. Port, initiatives such as the Outer Harbour project, shipbuilding development and comprehensive green energy measures will reshape the economic landscape of the region and strengthen its position as a major transshipment hub. Guided by Prime Minister Modi’s Maritime Vision 2047, these efforts will promote inclusive growth, sustainability and establish India as a global maritime powerhouse.”
It is expected that the projects will reduce logistics costs, accelerate industrial growth across the Tuticorin, Tirunelveli and Madurai districts, attract new investments and generate significant employment opportunities. The Maritime Heritage Museum is also expected to enhance tourism and contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the region, Sonowal said.
With ongoing investments in infrastructure, sustainability, digital innovation and port-led industrialisation, VOC Port is consolidating its position as a major maritime gateway on India’s eastern seaboard and a model for green and secure port development.”
