Nagapattinam Port needs deeper waters for larger vessels

Stakeholders are urging for deeper waters at Nagapattinam Port to support larger cargo vessels. Currently, the sea depth is just over two meters. This limits operations to small vessels that can carry about 800 tonnes. For larger cargo ships, a depth of 5 to 6 meters is needed. The district administration sees potential for economic growth through cargo services. However, experts emphasize that the shallow waters hinder larger cargo movement. There is a feasibility study in progress for port deepening, supported by IIT Madras. Subham Sundararaj Ponnusamy, a local ferry service operator, has shown interest in starting cargo services between Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai. He noted that the current depth makes it impractical. Ponnusamy listed four important needs for successful cargo operations: dredging, crane installation, weight measurement facilities, and extending the breakwater channel. The Tamil Nadu Maritime Board has confirmed that the state government is looking into these upgrades. A list of interested traders has already been compiled. Officials are hopeful that cargo services could start soon. However, challenges remain, as Kankesanthurai port in Sri Lanka also has infrastructure issues that may affect operations.