Tuticorin International Container Terminal Declared 'Green Terminal' After Full Electrification

The Tuticorin International Container Terminal (TICT) has officially achieved 'green terminal' status after fully electrifying 100 per cent of its operational equipment. The announcement was made by Union Shipping Secretary Vijay Kumar during a review meeting held this week regarding ongoing infrastructure projects valued at ₹18,000 crore.

As part of the green initiatives, the Union Shipping Secretary also flagged off 13 electric Internal Transfer Vehicles (E-ITVs) on Tuesday to support cleaner and more energy-efficient container handling operations at the facility.

Sushanta Kumar Purohit, Chairman of VO Chidambaranar Port (VOC Port), noted that the port in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, currently holds an annual cargo handling capacity of 82 million tonnes (MTPA). The historical port traces its trade links back to 123 AD.

During his visit, the Secretary reviewed several green maritime infrastructure projects at the port, which include a pilot methanol bunkering and refuelling facility, a green hydrogen pilot project, and wind energy installations with a combined value exceeding ₹18,400 crore.

According to port authorities, the major ongoing development is the outer harbour project, which is being constructed at an estimated cost of over ₹15,000 crore. The project aims to add 4 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of cargo-handling capacity, with the strategic objective of positioning Tamil Nadu as a primary transhipment hub in southern India.

Alongside operational and infrastructure upgrades, port management is also focusing on regional social development by working on the construction of a golf course, a Kendriya Vidyalaya for employees, and additional community amenities.

"The transition of the Tuticorin International Container Terminal into a fully electrified green facility marks a significant step forward for India's maritime infrastructure and logistics sector. Integrating sustainable practices, such as electric equipment and green hydrogen pilot projects, aligns industrial growth with long-term environmental responsibility. Furthermore, major capacity-building investments like the outer harbour project are crucial for strengthening regional supply chains and establishing key transhipment hubs in southern India." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes