The Paradip Port Trust (PPT) observed the Port Day on the auspicious Kartik Purnima on Wednesday.
PPT Chairman MT Krishna Babu gracing the function as chief guest unfurled the Paradip Port Flag at the Wet Basin. He performed the traditional Kalas Puja and handed over the sacred Kalas to the Sadhavas who set sail on board, a traditionally decorated boat. He also inspected the Port marine crafts.
Port Deputy Conservator Captain Paul N Joseph welcomed the guests and explained the importance of Port Day celebration.
The Chairman extend his greetings to the gathering said the Paradip Port is celebrating its anniversary on Kartik Purnima and, on the occasion 'we must recall the vision and effort of Port founder late Biju Pattanaik'.
Stating that the PPT grabbed second position among all major ports by handling 71.01 million tonnes in 2014-15, Krishna Babu said efforts are on to reach target of 75 million tonnes set for 2015-16.
He further informed that plans are on to handle about 100 MT in the next two to three years with new cargo in the profile expected in the coming years. He too said plans are also afoot to invest `5,000 to 10,000 crores rupees to modernize the Port so as enable it meet the world standards and to enhance the capacity from 170 MT to 320 MT, which includes 150 MT at outer harbour.
"To make our Port the biggest Port, deep draught is essential to facilitate movement of large vessels of size 1,25,000 DWT to 3,00,000 DWT to make the Exim trade cost effective," the Chairman added.
He also expressed his gratitude to the State Government for solving the land issue which was pending more than five decades.
He too informed that the PPT has made a plan to develop a super speciality hospital, which may take shape as a medical college to take care of needs of people of the peripheral area.
"PPT is also emphasising on health and educational facilities and spending money to reduce the environmental pollution by adopting plantation programmes and installing dust barriers," he said.
PPT Deputy Chairman N Vaiyapuri attended as the guest of honour and threw light on the overall development of Paradip Port and appreciated the functioning of the Port. PPT Secretary UR Mohan Raju proposed vote of thanks.