<p data-path-to-node="5">Accelerating its drive toward operational modernization and hinterland integration, the <b data-path-to-node="5" data-index-in-node="105">Chennai Port Authority (ChPA)</b> convened a high-level stakeholder consultation meeting focused on expanding container throughput and strengthening rail freight connectivity across South India.</p><p data-path-to-node="6">Chaired by Chennai Port Authority Chairman <b data-path-to-node="6" data-index-in-node="43">Sachin S. Kurve</b>, alongside <b data-path-to-node="6" data-index-in-node="70">Gayatri (IRTS)</b>, Area Head (South) for Container Corporation of India Ltd (CONCOR), the consultation brought together terminal operators, shipping lines, customs house agents, and logistics providers. Discussions targeted operational process optimization, digital integration, and expanding intermodal rail transportation to reduce road congestion and streamline EXIM supply chains.</p><h3 data-path-to-node="8"><b data-path-to-node="8" data-index-in-node="0">Intermodal Freight Expansion, Digital Integration, and Infrastructure Roadmap</b></h3><p data-path-to-node="9">The collaborative strategy centers on optimizing port-hinterland logistics and accelerating cargo evacuation:</p><ul data-path-to-node="10"><li><p data-path-to-node="10,0,0"><b data-path-to-node="10,0,0" data-index-in-node="0">Expanding Intermodal Rail Share:</b> In coordination with CONCOR, the port is focusing on increasing the modal share of container movement via rail, linking port terminals directly to inland container depots (ICDs) across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Telangana.</p></li><li><p data-path-to-node="10,1,0"><b data-path-to-node="10,1,0" data-index-in-node="0">Process Streamlining &amp; Dwell Time Reduction:</b> Stakeholders discussed simplifying customs documentation, optimizing terminal gate operations, and leveraging digital logistics platforms to reduce container dwell times and lower overall supply chain transaction costs.</p></li><li><p data-path-to-node="10,2,0"><b data-path-to-node="10,2,0" data-index-in-node="0">Capitalizing on Record Growth:</b> The initiative builds on Chennai Port’s strong performance trajectory, following an all-time high throughput of 1.83 million TEUs in FY 2025–26, supported by new liner service additions and digital workflow upgrades.</p></li><li><p data-path-to-node="10,3,0"><b data-path-to-node="10,3,0" data-index-in-node="0">Synergy with Connectivity Mega-Projects:</b> Operational improvements will be complemented by upcoming multimodal projects, including the Mappedu Multimodal Logistics Park (MMLP) and the dedicated double-decker elevated road corridor to Maduravoyal, ensuring seamless long-term port accessibility.</p></li></ul>