MoPSW Secretary Vijay Kumar Reviews Key Operations, Unveils New Facilities at Paradip Port
PARADIP: Paradip Port Authority (PPA) undertook an extensive review of its operational, digital and infrastructure capabilities during the two-day visit of Shri Vijay Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), who inspected key facilities across the port.
The Secretary was first welcomed at the Command Control Center at Gate No. 4, where officials briefed him on real-time vessel movement systems, safety monitoring tools, the Digital Access Control System and integrated digital platforms that support the port’s marine operations. The visit reinforced PPA’s push toward smarter, technology-driven port management.
Shri Kumar then inspected the Wet Basin to assess marine and berth operations, including berth readiness and vessel movement coordination. Chairman Shri P. L. Haranadh reaffirmed PPA’s commitment to improving efficiency, safety and preparing for future capacity expansions.
At the Mechanised Coal Handling Plant (MCHP), the Secretary visited the Plant Monitoring Room to review the Rail Receival System and key coal handling functions. He also evaluated mechanised cargo handling infrastructure such as the NIOB Wagon Tippler and the Stacker-Reclaimer system, focusing on wagon unloading efficiency, coal stacking performance and high-capacity cargo evacuation capabilities.
During a visit to the KICT Silo Loading System, Shri Kumar reviewed automated cargo loading operations that enable dust-free handling and faster cargo movement. The Secretary also boarded a vessel at the port to inspect iron ore loading operations, examining onboard systems, safety procedures and the real-time coordination essential for seamless vessel turnaround. He additionally inaugurated the upgraded Dust Suppression System at the MCHP, enhancing PPA’s efforts toward cleaner cargo handling.
The Secretary later convened a detailed Port Review Meeting with senior officers at the Administrative Building, where he interacted with stakeholders on strengthening logistics infrastructure, improving operational performance and enabling sustainable maritime growth.
Marking a key milestone for the port, Shri Vijay Kumar inaugurated the Integrated Gate No. 1 Complex and the SCADA system for Sub-Stations, in the presence of Chairman Shri P. L. Haranadh. These facilities are expected to boost port security, improve energy management and streamline cargo movement.
As part of community and environmental initiatives, the Secretary also visited the Paradip Golf Course, where he inaugurated one of the holes to enhance recreational amenities for seafarers and port personnel. A tree plantation drive was conducted at the venue, reinforcing the port’s commitment to green development.
The series of reviews and inaugurations underscored Paradip Port Authority’s focus on digital transformation, environmental responsibility and infrastructure modernisation as it continues to strengthen its position as a key gateway for maritime trade.