Are you looking for a unique and exciting destination for your next vacation? Do you want to explore the rich maritime heritage and natural beauty of India’s eastern coast? If yes, then you should consider visiting Paradip Port, the largest seaport in India and one of the most important industrial hubs in the country.
Paradip Port is a port authority, an industrial hub, and a tourist destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in learning about the port’s history, facilities, services, projects, tenders, notices, etc., or enjoying the various attractions and activities in and around the port, you will find plenty of reasons to visit Paradip Port.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Paradip Port, covering everything you need to know before you plan your trip. We will also give you some tips and suggestions on how to make the most of your visit to Paradip Port. So, let’s get started!
History and Location of Paradip Port
Paradip Port has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the ancient times. According to legend, Paradip Port was the place where Lord Rama built a bridge across the sea to reach Lanka and rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana. The name Paradip means “the mouth of the river” in Odia, as the port is situated at the confluence of the Mahanadi river and the Bay of Bengal.
Paradip Port was officially established in 1966 by the Government of India as a major maritime project to boost the country’s trade and commerce. Since then, Paradip Port has grown exponentially in terms of its capacity, infrastructure, equipment, services, etc., and has become one of the most successful and profitable ports in India. Paradip Port handles a variety of cargo such as coal, iron ore, crude oil, fertilizers, containers, etc., and has a total annual throughput of over 100 million tonnes.
Paradip Port is located in Jagatsinghpur district of Odisha state, about 125 km from the state capital Bhubaneswar. Paradip Port has a strategic location that connects it with its hinterland comprising of Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Bihar, etc., as well as with other ports in India and abroad. Paradip Port has excellent connectivity by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible for visitors.
Also Read: 5 Stunning Road Trips To Take In Odisha
Facilities and Services of Paradip Port
Paradip Port offers a wide range of facilities and services for its customers and stakeholders. Some of these facilities and services are:
Cargo Handling: Paradip Port has 20 berths and terminals that can handle various types of cargo such as dry bulk, liquid bulk, break bulk, containers, etc. Paradip Port has modern equipment such as cranes, conveyors, stackers, reclaimers, etc., that can handle cargo efficiently and safely.
Storage and Warehousing: Paradip Port has ample storage and warehousing facilities for different types of cargo such as coal yards, iron ore yards, liquid tanks, container yards, covered sheds, etc. Paradip Port also has cold storage facilities for perishable goods such as fruits and vegetables.
Railway Siding: Paradip Port has a dedicated railway siding that connects it with the main railway network of India. Paradip Port has four railway stations within its premises that can handle both inbound and outbound trains. Paradip Port also has locomotives and wagons for shunting operations.
Water Supply: Paradip Port has a reliable water supply system that provides potable water for domestic use as well as industrial water for operational use. Paradip Port has two water treatment plants that can produce 24 million litres per day (MLD) of potable water and 36 MLD of industrial water.
Power Supply: Paradip Port has a stable power supply system that ensures uninterrupted power supply for its operations and activities. Paradip Port has two power substations that can generate 33 KV and 11 KV of power. Paradip Port also has backup generators and solar panels for emergency situations.
Communication: Paradip Port has a robust communication system that facilitates smooth communication among its staff and customers. Paradip Port has landline phones, mobile phones, fax machines, internet connections, radio sets, etc., that can provide voice and data communication services.
Security: Paradip Port has a high level of security that protects its assets and personnel from any threats or risks. Paradip Port has CCTV cameras, metal detectors, security guards, patrol vehicles, firearms, etc., that can provide security surveillance and enforcement services.
Fire Fighting: Paradip Port has a well-equipped fire fighting system that can prevent and control any fire incidents or accidents. Paradip Port has fire stations, fire tenders, fire hydrants, fire extinguishers, etc., that can provide fire fighting services.
Medical: Paradip Port has a comprehensive medical system that can provide health care and emergency services for its staff and customers. Paradip Port has a hospital, a dispensary, an ambulance, a pharmacy, etc., that can provide medical services.
You can see the tariffs and charges for different services at Paradip Port on this link.
Paradip Port is also undertaking several projects to enhance its capacity, modernize its infrastructure, mechanize its operations, and dredge its channel. Some of these projects are:
Deep Draught Iron Ore Berth: This project involves the construction of a new berth that can handle iron ore vessels of up to 200,000 DWT (deadweight tonnage) with a draft of 18 meters. The project is expected to be completed by 2024 and will increase the iron ore handling capacity of Paradip Port by 10 million tonnes per annum (MTPA).
Multi-Modal Logistic Park: This project involves the development of a multi-modal logistic park that can provide integrated logistics solutions for various types of cargo such as containers, automobiles, agro-products, etc. The project is expected to be completed by 2025 and will have facilities such as warehouses, cold storages, container freight stations, inland container depots, etc.
LNG Terminal: This project involves the establishment of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal that can import, store, regasify, and distribute LNG for various industries and consumers. The project is expected to be completed by 2026 and will have a capacity of 5 MTPA of LNG.
Dredging: This project involves the dredging of the port’s channel and basin to increase the depth and width of the port’s waterway. The project is expected to be completed by 2027 and will enable the port to handle larger vessels of up to 250,000 DWT with a draft of 20 meters.
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Tourism and Attractions in and Around Paradip Port
Paradip Port is not only a port authority and an industrial hub, but also a tourist destination that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a thrilling wildlife adventure, a spiritual pilgrimage, or a cultural exploration, you will find something to suit your taste and preference in and around Paradip Port. Some of the major tourist attractions in and around Paradip Port are:
Paradip Beach: This is one of the most popular attractions near Paradip Port that attracts thousands of tourists every year. Paradip Beach is a beautiful and clean beach that offers scenic views of the sea and the ships. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, boating, fishing, or just relaxing on the golden sand. You can also visit the lighthouse and the garden nearby that add to the charm of the beach.
Bhitarkanika National Park: This is another attraction near Paradip Port that appeals to nature and wildlife lovers. Bhitarkanika National Park is a wildlife sanctuary that is home to various species of animals and plants. You can spot crocodiles, dolphins, turtles, deer, monkeys, birds, etc., in their natural habitat. You can also explore the mangrove forests and creeks that offer boating opportunities. You can also visit the Dangmal Crocodile Breeding Centre and the Interpretation Centre that provide information about the park’s flora and fauna.
Jhankad Temple: This is an attraction near Paradip Port that attracts devotees and pilgrims from different parts of the country. Jhankad Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Sarala, who is considered to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is believed to have been built by Lord Rama himself and has a rich history and legend associated with it. You can also see a pond where turtles can be seen.
Light House: This is an attraction near Paradip Port that offers panoramic views of the port and its surroundings. The light house is a 40-meter high tower that was built in 1968 and is still operational. You can climb up the stairs or take an elevator to reach the top of the tower and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. You can also visit the museum that displays maritime artifacts such as models, maps, charts, etc.
Marine Aquarium: This is an attraction near Paradip Port that showcases various marine creatures such as fish, corals, sharks, etc. The marine aquarium was inaugurated in 2017 and is one of the largest aquariums in India. You can see more than 100 species of marine life in different tanks and exhibits. You can also watch documentaries on marine conservation and awareness in the auditorium.
You can reach these attractions from Paradip Port by taking a taxi or a car for convenience and comfort. You can also take a bus or a train for economy and adventure.
The best time to visit Paradip Port and its attractions is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing and outdoor activities. You can also visit during April to June, when the temperature is high but manageable with proper precautions. You should avoid visiting during July to September, when the monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and humidity.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed reading this article and learned something new about Paradip Port. Paradip Port is a comprehensive guide to India’s largest seaport that covers its history, location, facilities, services, projects, tenders, notices, online services, applications, tourism, attractions, etc.
Paradip Port is a destination that offers something for everyone, whether you are interested in its industrial or maritime aspects or its natural or cultural aspects. Paradip Port is a place where you can experience the best of both worlds: modernity and tradition, industry and nature, commerce and culture.
If you are planning to visit Paradip Port soon, we suggest you book your accommodation in advance as there are limited options available near the port. You can choose from hotels, resorts, guest houses, etc., that suit your budget and preference. You can also check out some reviews and ratings of these accommodation options on this link.
If you want to learn more about Paradip Port or have any questions or queries, you can contact us or visit our website for more information. We will be happy to assist you and make your trip a memorable one.
