Subhechcha Ganguly 
As India’s maritime sector moves through shifting economic trends, on 27 November 2025, the Paradip Port Authority (PPA) achieved its fastest-ever handling of 100 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo in a single fiscal year, reaching 100.15 MMT in just 241 days. This is the ninth consecutive year the port has crossed the 100 MMT mark, but this year’s pace stands out, 12 days ahead of last year. At the centre of this consistent growth is P. L. Haranadh, the man steering Paradip through one of its strongest phases.
A 1994-batch Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) officer, Haranadh’s career began far from the coast, in the world of railway operations and freight management. Over more than two decades in Indian Railways, he handled critical responsibilities, from serving as Senior Divisional Operations Manager in Raipur and Chakradharpur to working as Deputy Chief Operations Manager across key zones. He later became Chief Freight Transportation Manager at East Coast Railway. His work earned him national awards in 2002 and 2005, a reflection of his ability to manage complex logistics with clarity and discipline.
Haranadh’s academic journey is equally impressive. With an MSc and Ph.D. from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in Pusa, New Delhi, he brings a scientific approach to planning and problem-solving. This mix of analytical thinking and operational experience proved valuable during his time as Deputy Chairman of Visakhapatnam Port from 2015 to 2020, where he helped the port climb into the top tier of major ports in India.
At Paradip, Haranadh has focused on strengthening the port’s long-term capabilities. The port’s current capacity of 289 MTPA is set to rise significantly with the Western Dock Project, a 25 MTPA deep-draft terminal designed to handle larger cape-size vessels. This expansion will help Paradip compete more effectively on the global stage and take on bigger, more diverse cargo volumes.
In 2023–24, Paradip overtook Gujarat’s Deendayal Port to become India’s highest cargo-handling major port, reaching 145.38 MMT. The port’s steady growth is supported by a clear push towards mechanisation, berth upgrades, deeper navigation channels, and smoother operating systems. His tenure has also brought honours to Paradip Port Trust (PPT), including the Sagar Shrestha Samman 2023, which reflects the port’s rising efficiency and achievements.
Haranadh also sees far beyond present targets. His long-term vision aligns with India’s Amrit Kaal vision of strengthening maritime infrastructure by 2047. He aims to take Paradip’s capacity to 500 MTPA in the coming decades. To support this, the port is improving rail connectivity, widening road networks, and integrating inland waterways to ensure smooth movement of goods. Sustainability forms another key part of his roadmap. From adopting renewable energy to planning a green hydrogen hub, Paradip is positioning itself for the future of clean and efficient logistics.
What sets him apart is his leadership style. He emphasises teamwork, communication, and coordination with all stakeholders, from port employees and unions to shipping agents and government machinery. This practical, inclusive approach has helped Paradip maintain its momentum without disruption.
Today, Paradip Port is growing steadily, expanding its capabilities, and strengthening its relevance on the eastern coast. Much of this progress reflects the way P. L. Haranadh approaches leadership, by focusing on systems, people, and long-term planning rather than short bursts of performance. As the port prepares for larger capacities, new cargo opportunities, and cleaner energy alternatives to build a foundation that can support Odisha’s and India’s maritime ambitions for years to come.
