Study of dry bulk traffic at minor port in Orissa

Focused study on dry bulk cargo traffic potential at a minor port in Odisha (formerly Orissa). The study examined iron ore, coal, and other dry bulk commodities, analyzing export opportunities, domestic trade, and infrastructure requirements to handle growing dry bulk volumes from the mineral-rich hinterland of Odisha.

Private port developer planning dry bulk terminal at a minor port in Odisha. The client sought to evaluate iron ore export potential, coal import opportunities for thermal power plants, and other bulk commodities to determine optimal terminal configuration and capacity planning for the proposed facility.

Odisha's bulk cargo movement is dominated by Paradip port and other established facilities. Challenges included assessing realistic capture of iron ore exports given mining regulations and existing port commitments, evaluating coal import demand from upcoming power projects, understanding railway infrastructure constraints for cargo evacuation, and determining competitive advantages to attract bulk cargo shippers.

The study involved primary research with iron ore mining companies, steel plants, thermal power stations, and industrial consumers. Analysis of mining leases and production capacities provided iron ore availability estimates. Power sector expansion plans quantified coal import requirements. Rail infrastructure assessment evaluated connectivity and wagon availability. Cargo logistics modeling compared transport costs via different ports. Competitive intelligence covered major port expansion plans and their impact on minor port traffic potential. Environmental and regulatory considerations for iron ore exports were analyzed given evolving government policies.

i-maritime assessed dry bulk traffic potential at 4-6 million tonnes annually comprising iron ore (2-3 MT export), thermal coal (1.5-2 MT import), and other bulk materials including limestone, dolomite, and industrial minerals (0.5-1 MT). Iron ore traffic dependent on securing commitments from specific mining companies and favorable export policies. Coal traffic linked to commissioning of thermal power projects in the region. Recommended terminal configuration: dedicated iron ore berth with shiploaders (10 MTPA capacity), multi-purpose berth for coal/other bulks with grab unloaders, and railway sidings with adequate storage yards. Success factors identified: competitive port tariffs, efficient cargo handling (2-3 days vessel turnaround), and long-term contracts with anchor customers. Phased development suggested to align with traffic ramp-up and minimize idle capacity risk.