Metallurgical coal, crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) are some of the cargo that can be imported from Russia to India on the Chennai-Vladivostok sea route. A recent study conducted by Chennai Port to find out what cargo has the potential to be transported from Vladivostok to the city located in Russia’s Far East.
Four years ago, India and Russia signed a proposal to establish a sea route between Chennai and Vladivostok to strengthen maritime trade. “The study was carried out over a period of three months by a contractor at a cost of ₹59 lakh to identify the cargo that could be imported into our country from Eastern Russia. Coking or metallurgical coal, LNG and crude oil are some of the major cargoes that can be imported, the study said. Besides, a small quantity of containers can also be imported,” said an official from the Chennai Port Trust.
The study makes some recommendations on the steps that need to be taken for smooth transfer of cargo. “One of the primary suggestions is that the approach road to Vladivostok Port needs to be rebuilt and dredging needs to be done to improve draft. The study looked at the pros and cons of importing these items and how it can be handled,” he said.
If this project becomes a reality, around 10,300 km or 5,600 nautical miles can be covered within 10 days and there is a huge potential for transshipment of major cargo in this part of the world, said Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister for Ports, Shipping and waterways recently reported Hindu.
“We are taking up an important issue with the Government of Russia. We had detailed discussions with the authorities regarding opening of sea route from Chennai to Vladivostok. This is one of the areas which has huge commercial potential in sea trade. Once Once it is discovered, Chennai will become one of the important ports of the world,” the minister said.