Kamarajar Port Limited, formerly known as Ennore Port, is situated approximately 24 kilometers north of Chennai on the Coromandel Coast in Tamil Nadu, India. It holds the distinction of being India’s first corporatized major port, operating as a public company. The port was declared a major port under the Indian Ports Act, 1908, in March 1999, and subsequently incorporated as Ennore Port Limited under the Companies Act, 1956, in October 1999.
This corporatization model allows Kamarajar Port to function with greater autonomy and flexibility compared to traditional port trusts. The port operates under the landlord port model, where the port authority acts as a regulatory body and landlord, while private companies handle port operations, especially cargo handling.
In 2014, Ennore Port was officially renamed Kamarajar Port in honor of K. Kamaraj, a former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. The port has developed specialized terminals for handling various types of cargo, including coal, automobiles, liquid bulk, and containers. It plays a crucial role in easing congestion at Chennai Port and contributes significantly to the region’s economic development.
Kamarajar Port’s strategic location and modern infrastructure have positioned it as a key player in India’s maritime sector, facilitating both domestic and international trade.
