Kamarajar Port cargo handling capacity doubled

Port Infrastructure & Natural Disasters

1. Key Facts – Ports and Maritime Sector

• Kamarajar Port: Cargo-handling capacity increased by 154%, reflecting rapid growth in port infrastructure.
• India’s Ports Capacity: Total cargo-handling capacity rose from 871.52 MTPA (2014–15) to 1,629.96 MTPA (2023–24) – an 87% increase in 9 years.
• Maritime Significance:
  • 95% of India’s trade by volume and 70% by value is done via maritime transport.
  • 80% of India’s energy (oil & gas) is transported by sea.
• National Perspective Plan – Sagarmala Programme:
  • 14 Coastal Economic Zones envisaged for port-led industrialisation.
  • Focus on modernising ports, enhancing cargo capacity, and reducing logistics costs.
• Infrastructure Spread: India has 12 major ports and 205 minor/intermediate ports.

UPSC Relevance:

• Economic Infrastructure: Ports and maritime logistics are key for trade, energy security, and industrialisation.
• Sagarmala Programme: Flagship initiative of Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways.
• Geography & Economy: Importance of coastline, maritime trade routes, and strategic ports.

2. Key Facts – Natural Disaster: Darjeeling & Mirik Landslides

• Event: Heavy rainfall caused landslides in Darjeeling and Mirik (West Bengal), resulting in 20+ deaths and disruption of roads and bridges.
• Government Response:
  • NDRF, State Disaster Management, local administration deployed for rescue operations.
  • Compensation promised to families of deceased; arrangements for stranded tourists.
  • Red alert issued by IMD for extremely heavy rainfall in sub-Himalayan West Bengal till 6 Oct 2025.
• Causes:
  • 300+ mm rainfall in 12 hours, soil saturation, overflow from Bhutan affecting rivers in North Bengal.
  • Fragile hilly terrain prone to landslides.
• Infrastructure Impact:
  • Iron bridge over Balason River collapsed.
  • Villages marooned, road connectivity severely affected.
    
    3. Analytical Insights
    • Ports & Economy:
      • India’s port infrastructure growth underlines its strategic and economic reliance on maritime trade.
      • Kamarajar Port’s growth indicates potential for regional industrial hubs and export promotion.
      • Sagarmala programme connects ports with industrial corridors, enhancing overall logistics efficiency.
    • Disasters & Governance:
      • Darjeeling landslides highlight climate and topographical vulnerability, especially in the Himalayas.
      • Shows importance of disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and coordinated response.
      • Urbanization and infrastructure planning must account for terrain and weather hazards.
        
        Updated - 25 Dec 2024, 7:33 am | The New Indian Express