Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu – July 26, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Thoothukudi on Friday and inaugurated multiple strategic projects, reaffirming the Centre’s focus on Tamil Nadu’s industrial and maritime development. The total worth of the projects launched or initiated stood at ₹4,800 crore, covering port infrastructure, industrial logistics, and economic corridors.
🔹 PM’s Statement and Vision
During the ceremony, PM Modi said,
“In February last year, I laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation several development projects worth hundreds of crores in Thoothukudi. Today, I am proud to be back, launching and initiating new projects worth ₹4,800 crore. My heartfelt congratulations to the people of Tamil Nadu for these transformative steps.”
🔹 VO Chidambaranar Port Expansion
A key highlight was the foundation laying of the Outer Harbour Container Terminal at VO Chidambaranar Port. This expansion is expected to enhance container capacity, accommodate larger vessels, and establish the port as a global maritime hub along India’s east coast.
🔹 Scope of Projects
The ₹4,800 crore investment includes:
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Port modernization and dredging works
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Logistics parks and connectivity projects
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Industrial corridor development across southern Tamil Nadu
These are designed to improve cargo movement, support export-oriented industries, and generate local employment in Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, and surrounding districts.
🔹 Long-Term Development Vision
PM Modi emphasized that the new infrastructure aligns with India’s PM Gati Shakti and Maritime India Vision 2030 initiatives. The projects are part of a larger strategy to integrate Tamil Nadu’s ports into global shipping routes, enhancing both export capacity and coastal economic zones.
🔹 Previous Commitments Reinforced
The Prime Minister referred to his February 2024 visit to the region, where he laid groundwork for multiple development plans in Thoothukudi. With the launch of the Outer Harbour Terminal, these earlier commitments have now entered execution.
🔹 Strategic Importance of Thoothukudi
Thoothukudi, home to VO Chidambaranar Port, plays a critical role in Tamil Nadu’s logistics economy. The new terminal and related upgrades aim to decongest traffic, reduce turnaround time, and support the port’s elevation to transshipment port status.
🔹 Benefits to Local Economy
The government estimates the projects will:
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Create over 40,000 direct and indirect jobs
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Boost industrial output in manufacturing zones
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Support MSME exports and port-based trade
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Improve road and rail connectivity to the hinterland
🔹 PM’s Call to Unity and Development
PM Modi also used the occasion to reaffirm the government’s inclusive development philosophy:
“Development has no language or region. These projects are for every Tamilian who wants opportunity, growth, and dignity.”
He assured continued central support for Tamil Nadu’s infrastructure and economic needs.
🔹 Local and Administrative Participation
While the ruling DMK did not participate officially, several local leaders, business groups, and public representatives attended the event. Port authorities, central ministers, and logistics officials were also present during the inauguration.
🔹 Security Arrangements and Public Response
Tight security was observed in the region, with more than 3,000 personnel deployed. Thousands of locals gathered at the Thoothukudi Port venue to witness the Prime Minister’s address. Many residents expressed optimism about employment and regional development prospects.
