The total traffic handled by all ports in the country grew by 3% in 2011-12 over the previous year. This stood at 911.7 million tons. 11.5% growth achieved by non-major ports contributed to the overall traffic growth, although there was a decline in traffic handled at major ports. The traffic handled by all ports grew by 1.8% in the first half of 2012-13 (April – September) over the corresponding period of the previous year. The share of the non-major ports in this growth was 10.3%.

The three port related performance indicators i.e. average turnaround time (in days), average pre-berthing detention time (in days) and average output per ship – berth – day (in tons) have shown improvement in 2011-12 and April-September, 2012 over corresponding previous period. The average output per ship-berth-day improved to 13,374 tons for all major ports during April-September, 2012-13 compared to 12,825 tons in corresponding period of 2011-12. The average turnaround time at major Indian ports improved to 4.15 days in 2012-13 (April-September) as against 5.29 (2010-11) and 5.05 (2011-12).

The average pre berthing detention time (PBDT) for all major ports declined from 2.32 days in 2010-11 to 2.04 in 2011-12. According to the Economic Survey, this could be a result of the lower volumes handled by ports due to the global turn down.

DSM/UM/MV/SR

(Release ID :92576)

Port traffic growth and improved port performance indicators signal stronger handling capacity and reduced detention times. Total port traffic grew in 2011-12 driven mainly by non-major ports, while major ports saw declines; early 2012-13 continued positive growth with non-major ports contributing a larger share. Operationally, average turnaround time and pre berthing detention time at major ports declined and average output per ship berth day increased, indicating improved berth productivity and reduced vessel delays.