Thoothukudi Port achieves cargo record

 The Panama-flagged vessel MV Elettra, with a length of 254.52 metres, beam of 43 metres and draft of 12.23 metres, arrived from the Port of Mina  Saqr, United Arab Emirates, hauling 93,353 tonnes of limestone, consigned for India Cements Limited and Eastern Bulk Trading and Shipping Private Limited, TK Ramachandran, Chairman, VOC Port Trust, said in a statement on Monday.

The vessel berthed at ninth berth commenced its discharge using three harbour mobile cranes capable of discharging 50,000 tonnes per day. The entire consignment is expected to be completed by 6 pm on Tuesday. The shipping agents for the vessel are Seaport Shipping Private Limited and Seaport Logistics Private Limited, Thoothukudi.

Previously, the highest parcel size vessel MV NBA Vermeer with 89,777 tonnes of coal was handled at the port on September 16, 2019.

It’s pertinent that during this financial year till December 2019, a volume 9.55 lakh tonnes of limestone was handled by the port as against 7.22 lakh tonnes handled during the corresponding period of previous year.

“Underpinned with deep draft berths, operational efficiency, excellent cargo evacuation infrastructure and enhanced asset utilisation, the port will continue to deliver the best and safest port services in the region.

On this occasion of achieving this significant milestone, I would like to recognise the hard work and commitment of ship agents, stevedores, harbour mobile crane operator, officers and other staff of the port,” the chairman said.