Smita Mishra 
FEATURE: Shri P.L. Haranadh, a distinguished officer of the Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) from the 1994 batch, has emerged as a transformative leader in India’s maritime sector. As the Chairman of Paradip Port Authority (PPA), he has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives that have propelled the port to unprecedented success. His extensive experience in freight operations, business development, and traffic planning, combined with his strategic vision, has positioned Paradip Port as a dominant force in India’s maritime landscape.
A Visionary with a Strong Academic and Professional Background
Born in Andhra Pradesh, Shri Haranadh’s academic journey laid the foundation for his illustrious career. He holds an MSc and Ph.D. from the esteemed Indian Agricultural Research Institute in Pusa, New Delhi. With 27 years of experience—22 in Indian Railways and five in the Ministry of Shipping—he has consistently demonstrated his expertise in logistics, operations, and strategic planning.
Before taking the helm at PPA, Shri Haranadh served as the Deputy Chairman of Visakhapatnam Port from 2015 to 2020. His tenure at Visakhapatnam was marked by innovative marketing solutions and logistics strategies that propelled the port into the top three major ports in India. His ability to attract diverse cargo, including coal and containers, showcased his knack for business development and port optimization.
Transforming Paradip Port Authority into a Global Maritime Leader
Since assuming the role of Chairman at PPA, Shri Haranadh has worked relentlessly to elevate the port to the number one position among India’s major ports. Paradip Port, strategically located on the Bay of Bengal, plays a crucial role in India’s trade with Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. Under his leadership, the port has recorded historic milestones in cargo handling and operational efficiency.
In FY 2023-24, Paradip Port surpassed Deendayal Port in Kandla, Gujarat, to become India’s highest cargo-handling major port. It recorded an impressive cargo throughput of 145.38 million metric tonnes (MMT), reflecting a 7.4% growth over the previous year. Additionally, the port achieved the highest coastal shipping traffic of 59.19 MMT, reinforcing its status as the “Coastal Cargo Hub” of India. These achievements have not gone unnoticed—Paradip Port has been honored with prestigious awards, including the “Sagar Shrestha Samman 2023,” a testament to its exceptional performance.
Expanding Infrastructure and Capacity for a Stronger Future
Shri Haranadh’s leadership is defined by his forward-thinking strategies and commitment to infrastructure expansion. The port currently boasts a capacity of 289 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), with the ambitious 25 MTPA Western Dock Project set to push this capacity beyond 300 MTPA. This massive expansion will further strengthen Paradip Port’s role as a key maritime hub.
Ongoing infrastructure upgrades include new berths, channel deepening, and enhanced cargo-handling capabilities. By adopting mechanized cargo handling, refined navigation systems, and efficient standard operating procedures, the port has achieved remarkable berth productivity and operational efficiency. The focus on improving port logistics has made Paradip one of the most efficient maritime gateways in India.
Commitment to Sustainability and Green Initiatives
Recognizing the need for sustainable growth, Shri Haranadh has championed green initiatives at Paradip Port. Renewable energy adoption, efficient waste management systems, and carbon footprint reduction strategies have become integral to port operations. One of the most ambitious projects under his leadership is the development of a Green Hydrogen Hub, which will position Paradip Port at the forefront of India’s transition to clean energy.
By incorporating solar and wind power into its energy mix, the port is reducing its dependence on conventional energy sources. These measures align with India’s larger vision for a sustainable maritime sector and demonstrate Shri Haranadh’s commitment to responsible leadership.
Recognitions and a Legacy of Excellence
Shri Haranadh’s remarkable career has been adorned with numerous accolades. He received National Awards for outstanding management in 2002 and 2005, recognizing his transformative contributions to railway and port operations. His tenure in various leadership roles—such as Sr. Divisional Operations Manager in Raipur and Chakradharpur, Deputy Chief Operations Manager in South Eastern and South Central Railways, and Chief Freight Transportation Manager at East Coast Railway—has been marked by strategic innovations that have significantly improved operational efficiencies.
His ability to foster strong collaborations between stakeholders, including employees, unions, customers, and government agencies, has played a crucial role in the sustained success of the ports under his leadership.
Charting the Future: Paradip Port’s Role in India’s Maritime Vision
Under Shri Haranadh’s stewardship, Paradip Port is poised to redefine maritime benchmarks. By 2047, as part of India’s Amrit Kaal vision, the port aims to achieve a staggering 500 MTPA capacity. This ambitious goal includes expanding existing berths, constructing new ones, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance efficiency.
Paradip Port is also investing in smart port technologies, automation, and digitalization to streamline cargo movement and reduce turnaround times. These advancements will ensure that the port remains competitive in the global maritime industry.
A Leader Steering India’s Maritime Future
Shri P.L. Haranadh is not just a leader navigating vessels; he is navigating the future of India’s maritime legacy. His tenure as Chairman of Paradip Port Authority has been defined by innovation, sustainability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. With his strategic foresight and operational expertise, Paradip Port continues to scale new heights, setting benchmarks in efficiency, cargo handling, and green initiatives.
As India strengthens its position as a global maritime power, Paradip Port, under Shri Haranadh’s leadership, stands as a beacon of progress. His visionary approach ensures that the port remains a key player in international trade, contributing significantly to the country’s economic growth. The legacy he is building today will shape the future of India’s maritime industry for decades to come.
