Road System

Internal Road Network

Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) has developed an efficient internal road network to facilitate smooth cargo and vehicle movement within the port. This well-planned infrastructure ensures minimal congestion, enabling faster turnaround times for port operations.

The internal road system supports seamless connectivity between various port facilities, thereby optimising overall operational efficiency. Initially, two bitumen roads — VOC Road (connecting the coal berths to the main gate) and Security Road — were established, along with temporary mud roads for additional access.

As part of the port’s modernisation programme, these roads have been upgraded into a four-lane concrete road network. The total internal road length is approximately 21 kilometres, comprising 5 kilometres of bitumen roads and 16 kilometres of concrete roads. This ensures enhanced durability and reduced maintenance costs for long-term operations.

The upgraded road infrastructure supports the growing volume of cargo traffic, significantly boosting the port’s operational efficiency and handling capacity.

The internal roads are further enhanced with tree plantations, stormwater drainage systems, kerb walls, traffic signage and road markings to ensure safety and improve the overall aesthetics of the port environment.

External Road Connectivity

Kamarajar Port enjoys excellent external road connectivity through major arterial routes such as National Highways NH4, NH5 and NH45. The port is also connected via Port Access Road, NCTPS Approach Road, Tiruvottiyur–Ponneri–Panchetti (TPP) Road, Inner Ring Road (IRR), Chennai Bypass Road and Outer Ring Road (ORR).

Ennore–Manali Road Improvement Project (EMRIP)

The Ennore–Manali Road Improvement Project (EMRIP), implemented by Chennai Ennore Port Road Company Limited (CEPRCL) in partnership with KPL and other stakeholders, involved the upgradation of the TPP Road into a four-lane highway.

KPL contributed Rs. 34.02 crore towards this project, which also included the widening of the Ennore Expressway, Manali Oil Refinery Road and Inner Ring Road. These improvements have significantly strengthened the port’s external connectivity and eased traffic congestion.

New Road Connectivity Projects

Northern Port Access Road

The Chennai Peripheral Ring Road Project (CPRRP), led by the Government of Tamil Nadu, includes the Northern Port Access Road (NPAR). This road connects Kamarajar Port to NH5 at Thatchur and further links to the Outer Ring Road (ORR) at Minjur.

With a total length of 24.6 kilometres, NPAR forms a critical segment of the 132.87-kilometre-long CPRRP. The project has received an administrative sanction of Rs. 2,673.42 crore and is being funded under JICA assistance, highlighting its strategic importance as a major infrastructure initiative.

The completion of NPAR is expected by 2027. Once operational, it will streamline cargo movement, reduce congestion on existing road networks and significantly improve access to major industrial hubs in the region.

Southern Port Access Road

KPL has undertaken the expansion of the Southern Port Access Road from Vallur Junction to the port’s main gate, widening it from two lanes to four lanes. This strategic enhancement aims to ease congestion and improve the flow of goods to and from the port.

The 7.1-kilometre-long road upgrade was completed in March 2023 at a cost of Rs. 195 crore. This development has significantly improved traffic flow, enhanced access for heavy vehicles and supported the increasing volume of cargo handled at the port.

The upgraded road infrastructure is designed to accommodate heavier loads and larger vehicles, ensuring seamless connectivity between the port and major highways. Additionally, it reduces transit time, improves safety standards and enhances the port’s competitiveness in handling EXIM trade.