Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Monday examined developments at the Port of Paradip and ordered capacity to increase to 500 million metric tons per year (mmtpa) by 2030.

According to media sources, during the meeting, the ministry evaluated various infrastructure projects, PPA projects, the port's operation, ease of doing business, green initiative and the port's business development activities.

Sonowal unveiled a Rs 29.68 crore container scanner that can scan up to 25 trucks per hour in scan mode.

Complying with international safety screening standards, the container scanner eliminates the need for manual container inspections by providing high-resolution imaging with organic and inorganic materials and would increase container traffic in the port.

As part of the improved port connection from the National Highway (NH) at Paradip Port, the minister has laid the foundation stone for the second exit annex road viaduct (Gati-Shakti Project).

This 2.4 km road-cum-viaduct serves as an alternative boarding/disembarkation option to/from the port, allowing for safe and busy vehicle circulation.

According to the government, the project, which would cost Rs 93 crore, would help separate freight and passenger traffic to and from Port Township.

Sonowal also took part in a plantation dive in Aayush Garden and opened the sewage treatment plant and Paradip College Boy's Hostel.

The Minister also attended a stakeholder meeting and inaugurated the Biju Convention Center.

He also met representatives from IDCO and IOCL to discuss the Paradip Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region (PCPIR).

During a review of PCPIR's progress, he emphasized a collaborative approach for faster development and overall development.