Kamarajar Port in Tamil Nadu achieves an 18-metre operational draft, becoming India’s second major port to reach that depth, according to multiple outlets. With the update, the port can accommodate fully laden Capesize vessels carrying cargo parcels of up to about 1,70,000 deadweight tonnes (DWT). The development expands the types and size range of ships the port can handle, supporting greater cargo throughput potential for bulk and other maritime trade that typically uses larger vessels. The reports describe the change as a milestone in the port’s operational capabilities, enabling deeper-draft shipping directly to Kamarajar rather than requiring smaller vessels or alternative routing. Both sources present the same core information: Kamarajar Port is newly able to operate at an 18-metre draft and is positioned as the second major port in India to attain this benchmark.