Tuticorin International Container Terminal Inauguration: Key Highlights

Why in the news?

The Tuticorin International Container Terminal was inaugurated, marking a major milestone in India’s maritime infrastructure, along with key green energy projects and the launch of the ambitious “Mission 50” campaign.

About Inauguration of Tuticorin International Container Terminal:

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the inauguration via video, calling the new terminal a “new star of India’s marine infrastructure.”
  • The terminal has a deep draft of over 14 metres and a 300-metre berth, enhancing V.O. Chidambaranar Port’s capacity, reducing logistics costs, and saving foreign exchange.
  • One of the terminal’s highlights is its 40% female workforce, emphasising women-led development.

Tamil Nadu: A Hub for Maritime Trade: 

  • Modi highlighted Tamil Nadu’s key role in India’s economic growth with three major ports and seventeen non-major ports.
  • The government is investing ₹7,000 crore to develop an Outer Harbour Container Terminal, further boosting port capacity.
  • The V.O.C. Port is set to continue expanding its role in India’s maritime development.

India’s Sustainable and Global Growth: 

  • Modi emphasised India’s focus on sustainable development, with the V.O.C. Port recognized as a Green Hydrogen hub and key player in offshore wind energy.
  • India’s growing infrastructure network—roads, highways, waterways—strengthens its position in global trade.
  • India is becoming a major stakeholder in the global supply chain, helping drive its journey to becoming the world’s third-largest economy.

Facts about  V.O. Chidambaram Pillai Port: 

  • O. Chidambaranar Port is located in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.
  • Named after freedom fighter V.O. Chidambaram Pillai.
  • Declared a major port on 11 July 1974.
  • It is the second largest port in Tamil Nadu and the fourth largest container terminal in India.
  • The port is an artificial port, strategically located near East-West international sea routes.
  • Positioned in the Gulf of Mannar, sheltered from storms and cyclones.
  • The port operates 24/7 throughout the year.

What is Green Ammonia?

  • Green Ammonia: A renewable, carbon-free process to produce ammonia, primarily used in fertilisers.
  • Production Process: Uses hydrogen from water electrolysis and nitrogen from air, powered by sustainable electricity, and combines them via the Haber process.
  • Energy Storage: Ammonia is easily stored in bulk as a liquid at low pressures or refrigerated, making it ideal for renewable energy storage.
  • Zero-Carbon Fuel: Can be used in engines or fuel cells, emitting only water and nitrogen; potential use in maritime engines.
  • Fertiliser Industry: Green Ammonia can replace Grey Ammonia without changing existing infrastructure.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times