Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) achieves 18-metre operational draft following ₹440 crore dredging project

Exam-focused facts from the 9 July 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) has become the second major port in India to achieve an 18-metre operational draft after the completion of the Capital Dredging Phase VI project.
The project was completed at a total cost of ₹440 crore and enables the port to handle fully laden Capesize vessels of up to 1,70,000 Deadweight Tonnage (DWT).
With this enhanced capability, KPL joins Visakhapatnam Port as the only two major ports in India capable of accommodating vessels with an 18-metre draft.
The technical scope involved deepening the outer approach channel from 20 metres to 23 metres and the inner entrance channel from 19 metres to 22 metres.
The development aligns with the government's Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 to enhance India's position in global maritime trade.