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Kandla
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Kandla is a census town in the Kutch district of Gujarat state in Western India, near the city of Gandhidham. It occupies 2.970 km2 (1.147 sq mi) on the coast of Gulf of Cutch along the banks of the Kandla Creek. According to the 2011 Census of India, Kandla is the census town in India with more than 15 thousand inhabitants within the urban area. Located on the banks of Kandla Creek, it is home to Kandla Port, one of the major ports of India on the west coast. The entire economic activity of the city is centered on the port. Kandla known as India's hub for exporting grains and importing oil.

Key Information

Demographics

[edit]

Consequently, the population increased by 0.72%, from 14,695 as of 2001 census to 15,782 as of 2011 census. As of 2011, the population density is 5,314/km2 and there are a total of 3,574 families residing in the Kandla. There are 9,028 male and 6,754 female citizens—a sex ratio of 748 females per 1000 males, lower than the national average of 926 per 1000. Among children aged 0–6 years, 1,323 are boys and 831 are girls—a ratio of 942 per 1000. Literacy stands at 51.5% (male 61.92%; female 37.24%), lower than the national average of 74.04%.[2][3]

Religion

[edit]
Religion in Kandla (2011)[3]
Islam
 
 54.32%
Hinduism
 
 44.95%
Christianity
 
 0.38%
Other or not stated
 
 0.35%

Muslims are in the majority; Hindus form a very large minority. There are also Christian, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist communities. According to the 2011 census, the religious make-up of Kandla was: Muslims (54.32%), Hindus (44.95%%), Christians (0.38%), Sikhs (0.10%), Buddhists (0.06%) and Jains (0.04%); 0.15% did not state any religion.

Climate

[edit]

Kandla has a semi-desert climate (BSh) under the Koppen-Geiger classification of climates. The average annual temperature is 24.8 °C. The average rainfall is 420 mm, most of which occurs during the monsoon from June to September.[citation needed]

Climate data for Kandla (1991–2020, extremes 1952–present)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 35.2
(95.4) 		39.1
(102.4) 		42.7
(108.9) 		45.2
(113.4) 		45.9
(114.6) 		42.6
(108.7) 		40.7
(105.3) 		37.6
(99.7) 		42.5
(108.5) 		41.4
(106.5) 		38.6
(101.5) 		35.6
(96.1) 		45.9
(114.6)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 26.8
(80.2) 		29.6
(85.3) 		33.3
(91.9) 		35.7
(96.3) 		36.2
(97.2) 		36.0
(96.8) 		33.6
(92.5) 		32.3
(90.1) 		33.6
(92.5) 		35.4
(95.7) 		32.7
(90.9) 		28.4
(83.1) 		32.8
(91.0)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 14.1
(57.4) 		16.6
(61.9) 		20.7
(69.3) 		24.2
(75.6) 		26.9
(80.4) 		28.3
(82.9) 		27.5
(81.5) 		26.5
(79.7) 		25.9
(78.6) 		24.5
(76.1) 		20.3
(68.5) 		15.8
(60.4) 		22.7
(72.9)
Record low °C (°F) 4.4
(39.9) 		7.7
(45.9) 		12.8
(55.0) 		14.4
(57.9) 		19.8
(67.6) 		22.0
(71.6) 		21.2
(70.2) 		20.8
(69.4) 		20.3
(68.5) 		15.0
(59.0) 		10.6
(51.1) 		7.2
(45.0) 		4.4
(39.9)
Average rainfall mm (inches) 0.2
(0.01) 		0.2
(0.01) 		0.8
(0.03) 		0.1
(0.00) 		1.4
(0.06) 		58.3
(2.30) 		179.2
(7.06) 		133.5
(5.26) 		70.2
(2.76) 		11.7
(0.46) 		2.6
(0.10) 		0.5
(0.02) 		458.6
(18.06)
Average rainy days 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.0 0.1 2.1 6.7 6.0 3.0 0.7 0.2 0.0 19.1
Average relative humidity (%) (at 17:30 IST) 42 39 41 48 56 61 68 69 63 49 44 44 52
Source: India Meteorological Department[4][5][6]
Climate data for Kandla Airport (1991–2020)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 34.3
(93.7) 		38.0
(100.4) 		42.6
(108.7) 		46.8
(116.2) 		48.4
(119.1) 		45.0
(113.0) 		40.6
(105.1) 		38.6
(101.5) 		41.0
(105.8) 		41.9
(107.4) 		37.5
(99.5) 		35.2
(95.4) 		48.4
(119.1)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 27.6
(81.7) 		31.0
(87.8) 		35.4
(95.7) 		39.5
(103.1) 		41.2
(106.2) 		38.5
(101.3) 		34.9
(94.8) 		33.2
(91.8) 		34.5
(94.1) 		36.6
(97.9) 		33.5
(92.3) 		29.3
(84.7) 		34.6
(94.3)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 11.6
(52.9) 		14.6
(58.3) 		19.1
(66.4) 		23.3
(73.9) 		26.4
(79.5) 		28.1
(82.6) 		27.2
(81.0) 		25.9
(78.6) 		24.7
(76.5) 		22.4
(72.3) 		18.1
(64.6) 		13.2
(55.8) 		21.2
(70.2)
Record low °C (°F) 2.9
(37.2) 		4.3
(39.7) 		10.7
(51.3) 		15.2
(59.4) 		19.2
(66.6) 		19.4
(66.9) 		22.6
(72.7) 		21.8
(71.2) 		18.3
(64.9) 		13.7
(56.7) 		8.8
(47.8) 		5.4
(41.7) 		2.9
(37.2)
Source: India Meteorological Department[7]

Economy

[edit]

The Port of Kandla Special Economic Zone (KASEZ) at Kandla was the first special economic zone to be established in India and in Asia.[8] Established in 1965,[9] the Port of Kandla SEZ is the biggest multiple-product SEZ in the country. Kandla is the first Export Processing Zone in India. Covering over 310 hectares, the special economic zone is just nine kilometers from the Port of Kandla. Today, Port of the town is India's hub for exporting grains and importing oil and one of the highest-earning ports in the country. Major imports entering the Port of Kandla are petroleum, chemicals, and iron and steel and iron machinery, but it also handles salt, textiles, and grain.[10] The town has grown up base on the port with a school and hotel etc.

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Kandla

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Kandla is a census town and major port in the Kachchh district of Gujarat, western India, situated on the Gulf of Kutch in the Arabian Sea. It serves as a critical gateway for international trade, primarily through Deendayal Port (formerly Kandla Port), which was developed in the 1950s with its foundation laid by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1952 and declared a major port in 1955 to replace the lost port of Karachi after India's partition and has since become one of the country's largest ports by cargo handling volume. The town itself has a population of 15,782 (2011 census; latest available due to postponement of 2021 census), with a density of 5,314 people per square kilometer, and its economy is predominantly driven by port-related activities, including shipping, logistics, and the adjacent Kandla Special Economic Zone (KSEZ). Historically, the port's development began in with the of an RCC jetty by Maharao Khengarji, but it was formally established in the to bolster western India's maritime post-independence. Renamed Deendayal Port in in honor of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay, it was converted into a Trust in 1964 and has expanded significantly through involvement, achieving milestones such as handling 100 million metric tonnes (MMT) of for the first time in 2015-16 and surpassing 150 MMT in FY 2024-25, marking a 13% year-on-year growth—the highest among India's major ports. This growth underscores its role as one of India's 12 major ports, contributing around 10% of the nation's total throughput (as of FY 2024-25), with a focus on dry bulk (like fertilizers, grains, and minerals), liquid ( and chemicals), and containers. The port's includes 18 berths—12 for dry with a total quay length of 2,532 meters and 6 oil jetties—along with specialized facilities such as the Kandla International Terminal (commissioned in 2018), which features a 545-meter quay, rail-mounted quay cranes, and a 13.82-hectare yard with reefer points for perishable goods. Connectivity is enhanced by a dedicated railway line (station code: Deendayal Port), road networks, and regular feeder services to the , , and India's coastal regions, supporting efficient evacuation of over 140 million tonnes of annual . Beyond , Kandla plays a pivotal role in Gujarat's industrialized economy, fostering sectors like , , and green initiatives, including recent efforts to develop methanol bunkering for sustainable shipping. As of 2025, ongoing upgrades valued at ₹57,000 aim to further boost capacity and mechanization, positioning it as a global powerhouse.

History

Early history and etymology

The region of Kandla lies within the historical territory of the princely state of Kutch, a kingdom founded around 1147 CE by Lakho Jadani of the Samma tribe and subsequently ruled by the Jadeja Rajput dynasty from the 16th century onward. Kutch maintained semi-autonomy as one of India's princely states, becoming a British protectorate under treaty in 1819 following regional conflicts and the establishment of British paramountcy in western India. The state, known for its arid landscape, salt marshes, and coastal access to the Gulf of Kutch, experienced periodic earthquakes and invasions that shaped its political and economic contours, with Bhuj serving as the capital. Under the rule of (r. 1875–1942), the Kandla area gained attention for its maritime potential amid growing trade needs in the early . The British conducted an initial appraisal of Kandla creek in 1851 to assess its viability as a harbor site, recognizing its natural deepwater characteristics in the . A more comprehensive survey followed in , confirming the creek's sheltered location and depth as advantageous for port infrastructure, though major development remained limited due to competing priorities elsewhere in British . In 1931, initiated the construction of a (RCC) at Kandla creek, providing the first permanent structure for small-scale shipping and local commerce in the region. This modest facility supported rudimentary trade activities, such as handling goods for the princely state's , but did not evolve into a full-scale until after Indian independence.

Development of the port

Following the in 1947, which resulted in of Karachi Port to , the identified the need for a new major seaport to serve the western region and restore disrupted trade routes. Kandla Port was constructed in the 1950s specifically to address this gap, functioning as the primary gateway for a vast hinterland that extends far beyond the boundaries of state itself. The foundation stone for the was laid by Prime Minister on January 10, 1952, marking a key step in post-independence infrastructure development. The first two cargo berths were dedicated to on March 3, 1957, enabling the port to become operational that year and begin handling shipments to compensate for the trade volumes previously routed through . In its early phase, operations focused on bulk commodities, with a particular emphasis on grain exports to support India's agricultural trade and oil imports to meet growing energy demands. As the port expanded through subsequent infrastructure additions, including additional berths and channel improvements, it evolved into one of India's 12 major ports under . The access channel's depth, which varies with and reaches a minimum of 13 meters, has historically shaped operational scheduling and vessel movements. In 2017, under the provisions of the Indian Ports Act, 1908, the port was officially renamed to honor Pandit , becoming only the third major Indian port named after an individual, following and Kamarajar Port.

Geography

Location and physical features

Kandla is situated in the Kachchh district of state, western India, at coordinates 23°01′N 70°13′E. It lies on the eastern shore of the , an inlet of the , along the western bank of Kandla Creek, approximately 90 km from the gulf's mouth. The town is in close proximity to , forming an integrated urban-port complex. The topography of Kandla features a coastal semi-desert typical of the arid Kutch region, with flat terrain at or near . It includes a natural deepwater harbor sheltered within a of Kandla Creek, originally marshy land that has been elevated for development. This area forms part of the broader , a vast arid expanse characterized by seasonal flooding and salt-encrusted plains. Environmentally, Kandla is adjacent to extensive salt marshes and the , a large seasonal salt that influences the local through tidal inundation and hypersaline conditions. As a , it encompasses urban settlements closely intertwined with port-related facilities, spanning coastal zones that support diverse intertidal habitats.

Climate

Kandla features a hot (BSh) under the Köppen-Geiger , marked by low annual precipitation relative to high potential evapotranspiration, resulting in a deficit throughout much of the year. This reflects the region's arid topography and proximity to the , contributing to elevated evaporation rates that exceed rainfall in non-monsoon periods. The climate supports sparse vegetation and influences local agriculture and management, though the area's primary economic focus remains maritime activities. The annual average in Kandla is 24.8°C, with significant seasonal variations driven by the subtropical high-pressure system. May is the hottest month, recording average highs of 38.8°C (101.8°F) and lows of 27.8°C (82°F), when intense solar heating leads to heatwaves. In contrast, the coolest period occurs from December to February, with daytime highs around 27–29°C (81–84°F) and nighttime lows dipping to about 18–20°C (64–68°F), providing mild winter conditions influenced by continental air masses. Precipitation in Kandla totals approximately 300-400 mm annually, predominantly concentrated during the summer season from to , when southwest winds bring moisture from the . typically receives around 113 mm of rainfall, while the winter months ( to March) are largely dry with negligible precipitation. Occasional cyclones originating in the can intensify monsoon rains or cause erratic downpours, though such events are infrequent. Extreme weather phenomena include high relative humidity levels exceeding 80% during the , fostering muggy conditions that contrast with the drier, dust-laden pre-monsoon period (March-May). Dust storms, or "loo" winds, are common in this phase, carrying fine particles from the surrounding arid landscapes and reducing . Tidal variations in the are amplified by seasonal winds and monsoonal surges, affecting water levels and navigational conditions in the port area.
MonthAvg High (°C/°F)Avg Low (°C/°F)Avg Rainfall (mm)
26.9 / 80.417.8 / 64.01
29.8 / 85.619.5 / 67.10
34.3 / 93.723.3 / 73.91
April38.1 / 100.626.3 / 79.30
May38.8 / 101.827.8 / 82.00
June36.6 / 97.929.1 / 84.430
July32.7 / 90.928.0 / 82.4113
August31.8 / 89.227.0 / 80.6152
September33.1 / 91.626.5 / 79.783
October35.5 / 95.927.0 / 80.66
November32.2 / 90.024.1 / 75.44
December28.1 / 82.619.7 / 67.50
Annual33.3 / 91.924.8 / 76.6390
*Data sourced from historical records (1981-2010 averages).

Demographics

Population and growth

Kandla is classified as a with a total of 15,782 as per the . Of this, 9,028 were males and 6,754 females, resulting in a of 748 females per 1,000 males. The rate stood at 51.47%, with male at 61.92% and female at 37.24%. The town's grew at a decadal rate of 7.4% between 2001 and 2011, increasing from 14,695 residents. This moderate growth reflects sustained but limited expansion, influenced by a high influx of migrants since the following the establishment and development of the . Projections estimate the at around 17,000 by 2025, based on continued urban migration tied to port-related opportunities. Kandla's urban profile features a of approximately 5,314 persons per square kilometer across its 2.97 km² area. The demographic composition primarily consists of port workers, traders, and their families, drawn from various regions of due to economic opportunities at the port. As part of the broader Gandhidham-Kandla urban agglomeration, it integrates with the adjacent municipality, contributing to regional urban dynamics.

Religion and languages

Kandla's religious demographics reflect its position as a diverse town in Gujarat's . According to the 2011 , Muslims form the largest religious group at 54.32% of the , followed by at 44.95%, with smaller communities including (0.38%), (0.10%), Buddhists (0.06%), and Jains (0.04%). This composition contrasts with the broader , where constitute about 76.9% of the . The elevated proportion of Muslims in Kandla stems from longstanding Sindhi Muslim and Kutchi Muslim communities, including groups like the Sindhi Jats and pastoral communities such as the Mutva and Halepotra, who have settled in the region for generations. Minorities like and are often linked to migrant workers and traders drawn by the 's international commerce. Linguistically, Kandla exhibits the multicultural influences of its location near the border and its role as a major trade hub. While Gujarati serves as the official language of , the town's speech patterns align closely with trends, where Gujarati is the mother tongue for approximately 58.92% of residents and Sindhi for 36.22%, often encompassing Kutchi dialects classified under Sindhi in data. is commonly used as a among workers, while Kutchi variants prevail in daily interactions among local communities. English holds prominence in port operations, business dealings, and administration, facilitating communication with global shipping networks. This linguistic diversity traces back to partition-era migrations from in 1947, when many Sindhi speakers, primarily , resettled in Kutch, including areas around Kandla and nearby , blending with indigenous Kutchi speakers.

Economy

Port operations

Deendayal Port is managed by the Deendayal Port Authority and operates as a tidal port with a maximum draft of approximately 12.5 meters, enabling the accommodation of vessels up to 300 meters in length. The port features 18 dedicated berths, including 12 for dry and 6 oil jetties, along with specialized terminals for dry bulk, liquid bulk, and handling, supported by modern such as single-point moorings for crude and mechanized facilities for efficient throughput. These berths facilitate the processing of diverse commodities, with operations optimized for high-volume trade through rail and road connectivity. In the financial year 2024-25, the port achieved a record of 150.16 million metric tonnes (MMT), marking a significant increase from 132.37 MMT in FY 2023-24 and positioning it as one of India's busiest major ports by throughput. This underscores its role in handling substantial dry bulk and liquid , with specialized terminals contributing to the port's growing handling capabilities. Key imports include crude oil, fertilizers, edible oils, and foodgrains, while exports feature salt (reaching a record 17.48 MMT), grains such as soybeans, and other commodities like and timber. The port serves as a critical node for products and fertilizers, supporting domestic industrial needs. Strategically located on the , Deendayal Port acts as the primary gateway for northern and , including landlocked states, by channeling goods through extensive inland networks. It functions as a vital hub for , with strong connectivity to the , , and , facilitating exports and imports that bolster regional economies. The port handles a major share of Gujarat's container traffic alongside bulk commodities, enhancing its economic impact on the surrounding areas.

Industrial development and SEZ

The Kandla Special Economic Zone (KASEZ), established in 1965 as Asia's first Export Processing Zone, marked a pivotal step in India's industrial policy to boost exports and attract foreign investment. Upgraded to a full-fledged multi-product SEZ in 2000 under the Special Economic Zones Act, it spans approximately 1,000 acres in the Kutch district of Gujarat and hosts over 300 operational units. These units primarily focus on manufacturing sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, plastics, chemicals, and cosmetics, with warehousing and logistics emerging as dominant activities due to the zone's strategic proximity to major ports. In FY 2023-24, KASEZ achieved exports valued at Rs. 9,093 crore (approximately US$1.09 billion), underscoring its role as a key driver of India's export-led growth. KASEZ's development has significantly impacted local employment, providing direct jobs to over 41,000 individuals as of 2023-24, with about 30% of these positions held by women, thereby fostering inclusive economic growth in the region. The zone offers attractive incentives, including exemptions from customs duties, income tax holidays for developers and units, and simplified regulatory procedures, which have encouraged investment in high-value industries. Additionally, KASEZ earned the distinction of being India's first green industrial city in 2021, receiving the IGBC Green Cities Platinum rating for its sustainable practices, such as planting over 3.5 lakh trees across its premises and implementing eco-friendly infrastructure. This green certification highlights the zone's commitment to environmental sustainability alongside industrial expansion. To further scale its multi-product focus, the Kandla Port Trust announced plans in 2018 for a port-based multi-product SEZ (PBMPSEZ) expansion covering around 5,000 hectares across Kandla and nearby areas, aiming to integrate advanced , , and parks with world-class . This proposed development seeks to build on KASEZ's legacy by attracting larger investments and enhancing the region's industrial ecosystem, though it remains in the planning phase with ongoing efforts to secure approvals and co-developers.

Infrastructure

Transportation networks

Kandla's road network is primarily anchored by National Highway 41 (NH 41), which provides direct connectivity to , approximately 300 km to the southeast, and , about 60 km to the northwest. State highways further link Kandla to the nearby town of , roughly 15 km away, facilitating local traffic and industrial movement. Ongoing developments under the Smart Industrial Port City (SIPC) initiative include enhancements for urban mobility, such as improved road infrastructure to support integrated transport in the Kandla-Gandhidham-Adipur complex. The rail infrastructure at Kandla features the Kandla Port Dock Rail Terminal, integrated into the Western Railway network, which handles both freight and operations. Dedicated freight corridors, including connections from the (WDFC), enable efficient cargo transport to and from the port, linking it to major industrial hubs and reducing transit times for containerized . services operate from nearby station, offering regular trains to key cities such as , with travel times around 5 hours for the 300 km route. Air connectivity is served by , the nearest facility located approximately 65 km from Kandla, providing domestic flights to destinations like and . In 2025, the Deendayal Port Authority announced investments totaling 57,000 to enhance port capacity, including 27,000 for a new cargo terminal near to add 135 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of handling capability and 30,000 for shipbuilding facilities that incorporate logistics parks for improved multimodal integration. Within the port, internal rail and systems support movement, with recent initiatives like a 750-meter pilot for autonomous magnetic rail freight (MagRail) technology aimed at automating short-haul cargo transfers and reducing emissions. Future plans under the SIPC project envision expanded internal connectivity, including dedicated corridors across 1,425 acres to foster seamless integration between operations and industrial zones in the .

Education and healthcare facilities

Kandla's education system primarily consists of primary and secondary schools affiliated with the , providing instruction in Gujarati, , and English mediums. Notable institutions include S.V.P. Gujarat Vidyalaya, which offers education from grades 9 to 12, and M.P. Patel Kanya Vidyalaya, a girls' school serving the same grade range in . These schools emphasize foundational subjects like , , and languages, with enrollment supported by local community organizations such as , which manages multiple secondary schools. Vocational training tailored to port-related skills is facilitated through initiatives by the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), including a Multi-Skill Development Centre established on a mode to impart competencies in marine operations, safety, and . Apprenticeship programs under DPA target and graduates, focusing on practical skills like handling and maritime technology. Additionally, specialized short-term courses, such as those on for green maritime practices, are conducted to upskill port professionals and seafarers. Higher education options are accessible in nearby , with colleges offering programs in , , and . Dunes College, approved by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), provides undergraduate courses in technical fields, while institutions like Smt. H.C. (Kandari) Arts and Commerce College and Shri M.P. Shah Commerce College focus on commerce and humanities. The DPA supports educational access through study allowances for employees' children up to standard 12 and reimbursement under the Children Education Allowance scheme, ensuring parity in welfare benefits. Healthcare in Kandla is anchored by government-run facilities and DPA-managed services, serving population exceeding 90,000 residents in the port-adjacent areas. Primary Health Centres (PHCs), such as the Nana Kapaya PHC, and Community Health Centres (CHCs) under the health framework provide basic outpatient care, vaccinations, and maternal services, integrated with the broader health system that includes 42 PHCs and 16 CHCs district-wide. The DPA operates dedicated medical infrastructure for port employees, pensioners, and their dependents, including a 54-bed at Gopalpuri with 24-hour physician availability, specialists in general , , gynecology, and orthopedics, a physiotherapy center, and round-the-clock services. Additional facilities encompass at New Kandla and , plus a dispensary in , with referral arrangements to multi-specialty like Sterling Specialty in for advanced care. These provisions extend treatment parity to retirees and include initiatives like the installation of medical oxygen PSA units via DPA's efforts to enhance emergency response. Specialized care for industrial accidents is addressed through DPA's equipped emergency units and rapid evacuation options, including air ambulance services tailored for port-related traumas in the high-risk industrial zone. Regional integration with Kutch facilities ensures comprehensive coverage, such as access to district-level trauma centers for severe cases.

Culture and landmarks

Local festivals and traditions

Kandla, situated in the of , hosts a variety of festivals that reflect its multicultural fabric, primarily influenced by Hindu, Muslim, and local Kutchi communities. , the festival of lights, is celebrated vibrantly with homes and markets adorned in colorful designs, diyas (oil lamps), and fireworks, emphasizing themes of prosperity and the triumph of good over evil through and the sharing of sweets like laddoos and . Navratri follows closely, marking nine nights of devotion to Goddess with energetic Garba and dances performed in circular formations to traditional folk tunes; in Kandla, the Deendayal Port Authority organizes themed Garba events that draw port workers and residents, blending community spirit with rhythmic clapping and swirling skirts, such as the Raas Garba Night on November 19, 2025, themed "Operation Sindoor" to honor the . and are observed by the Muslim population with special prayers at local mosques, followed by feasts featuring and , fostering a sense of gratitude and communal harmony across neighborhoods. The nearby Rann Utsav, held annually from November to February in the Great Rann of Kutch, extends its cultural reach to Kandla's port community, showcasing Kutchi crafts such as embroidery and pottery alongside folk music performances that highlight the region's arid heritage. Local traditions in Kandla embody a seamless blend of Gujarati, Sindhi, and Kutchi customs, evident in the integration of Sindhi influences like Sufi devotional music—such as Maulud sung by Jat communities—and Kutchi folk dances including Garba and Hallisak, which feature vibrant attire with mirror work and are performed during weddings and harvest events to invoke joy and unity. Port-specific gatherings, like trade fairs and cultural nights organized by maritime workers, incorporate these elements, promoting interfaith participation where Hindus and Muslims join in dances and music sessions. Community life in Kandla is enriched by annual food festivals tied to these celebrations, where stalls offer Kutchi specialties such as —a spiced potato filling wrapped in pav with tangy chutneys—alongside Sindhi-influenced dishes like Sai bhaji, emphasizing shared culinary practices that bridge diverse groups during events like Rann Utsav extensions or local melas.

Notable sites

Kandla, now primarily known through its association with the Deendayal Port, offers visitors opportunities to observe maritime operations from designated public viewing areas, including sights of the bustling harbor activities. The port's historical significance is marked by the foundation stone laid by Prime Minister on January 10, 1952, commemorating the inception of this major trade gateway. A local religious site is the Shree Balaji Temple in the Port Colony area, dedicated to Lord Venkateswara (Balaji), which serves as a spiritual hub for the community. Among the local green spaces, in nearby serves as a popular recreational area with lush lawns, vibrant flower beds, and shaded walking paths, ideal for family outings and evening strolls. Sindhu Baug, another well-maintained in Sector 1, features amusement rides and open areas that attract visitors seeking light entertainment amid greenery. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Park in offers a serene setting for relaxation, while B.K. Ayachi Garden provides additional landscaped grounds for leisurely visits in the vicinity. Religious sites include the Patadiya Hanuman Temple in Antarjal, near Gandhidham, renowned for its towering 32-foot idol of Lord Hanuman and tranquil surroundings that draw devotees and tourists alike. The Gandhi Samadhi in Adipur stands as a poignant memorial, housing a portion of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes immersed in the nearby Kandla creek in 1948, with a small garden fostering a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. For entertainment, Om Cineplex in Gandhidham operates as a modern multiplex with comfortable seating, cooperative staff, and adjacent eateries, catering to movie enthusiasts in the area. Kandla's proximity to the Rann of Kutch salt desert, approximately 100-150 kilometers away, allows for day trips to this expansive natural wonder, enhancing its appeal for nature explorers. Overall, tourism in Kandla emphasizes its quiet, industrial heritage centered on the port, offering a less crowded alternative to busier sites like Bhuj, with a focus on maritime history and modest local attractions.

References

  1. https://www.deendayalport.gov.in/en/about-us/brief-history/
  2. https://www.census2011.co.in/data/town/507358-kandla-gujarat.html
  3. https://www.citypopulation.de/en/india/gujarat/kachchh/2440108000__kandla/
  4. https://m.economictimes.com/industry/transportation/shipping-/-transport/kandla-deendayal-port-achieves-milestone-of-handling-150-million-tonnes-in-2024-25/articleshow/120195245.cms
  5. https://www.ibef.org/industry/ports-india-shipping
  6. https://www.gem.wiki/Kandla_Port
  7. https://shipmin.gov.in/sites/default/files/Cargo%20handled%20at%20Non-Major%20Ports%20March%202025.pdf
  8. https://www.deendayalport.gov.in/en/infra-services/infrastructure/
  9. https://www.kron4.com/business/press-releases/ein-presswire/800893295/deendayal-port-authority-kandla-india-joins-the-methanol-institute-to-advance-green-fuel-bunkering
  10. https://www.marineinsight.com/ports/kandla-port-gujarat-an-important-commercial-port-of-india/
  11. https://megaproject.com/news/portandship/kandla-port-to-get-rs57000-crore-infrastructure-upgrade-dpa
  12. https://www.indianrajputs.com/view/kutch
  13. https://www.worldstatesmen.org/India_princes_K-W.html
  14. https://nri.gujarat.gov.in/his-kutch-2.htm
  15. https://dcmsme.gov.in/dips/2016-17/kutch.pdf
  16. https://in.thedollarbusiness.com/magazine/is-indias-darling-port-losing-its-sheen/1472
  17. https://www.jmbaxi.com/newsletter/issue-xxxviii/taking-india-to-the-world-via-ports.html
  18. https://vajiramandravi.com/current-affairs/deendayal-port/
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  20. https://www.deendayalport.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/AAR-2014-15.pdf
  21. https://www.shipmin.gov.in/sites/default/files/AAR_2022-23.pdf
  22. https://e-startupindia.com/learn/major-import-and-export-ports-in-india/
  23. https://www.pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=171120
  24. https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/deendayal-port-kandla-third-country-named-after-individual-1057785-2017-10-04
  25. https://www.deendayalport.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/AAR-2015-16.pdf
  26. https://www.deendayalport.gov.in/en/about-us/geographical-location-its-advantages/port-location/
  27. https://www.deendayalport.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/EOI_merged-1.pdf
  28. https://www.latlong.net/place/kandla-gujarat-india-10915.html
  29. https://sagarmala.gov.in/sites/default/files/5.Final_Master_Plan_Kandla.pdf
  30. https://drs.nio.res.in/drs/bitstream/2264/87/2/Gulf
  31. https://www.britannica.com/place/Rann-of-Kachchh
  32. https://www.mindat.org/feature-1268122.html
  33. https://dwiep.ncscm.res.in/Island/IslandDetails/INGJ002
  34. https://www.weather-atlas.com/en/india/kandla-climate
  35. https://www.cgwb.gov.in/old_website/District_Profile/Gujarat/Kachchh.pdf
  36. https://www.climatestotravel.com/climate/india/bhuj
  37. https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/374/download/1144/DH_2011_2401_PART_A_DCHB_KACHCHH.pdf
  38. https://www.kutchadventuresindia.com/blog-blogger-bhuj-kutch-gujarat-travel/communities-of-kutch-gujarat/
  39. https://www.censusindia.co.in/towns/kandla-population-kachchh-gujarat-507358
  40. https://www.deendayalport.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/PRESS-RELEASE-RECORDS-CREATED-AT-DPA-IN-FY-2024-25-2.pdf
  41. https://www.voceanship.com/country/india/kandla-port-information-deendayal-port
  42. https://www.taxtmi.com/news?id=39915
  43. https://www.deendayalport.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/EG-WK-4660-EC-Part-V_05.pdf
  44. https://infra.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/ports-shipping/paradip-port-authority-retains-the-top-slot-in-cargo-handling-among-major-ports-in-fy25-by-a-whisker/119890886
  45. https://www.deendayalport.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Proposal-v2-work-order.pdf
  46. https://kasez.gov.in/
  47. https://www.india-briefing.com/news/guide-indias-special-economic-zones-9162.html/
  48. https://kasez.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/4.5.6-Annual-Report-2023-24.pdf
  49. https://www.commerce.gov.in/press-releases/kandla-becomes-first-green-sez/
  50. https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/kandla-port-plans-portbased-multiproduct-sez-in-kandla-tuna/article7073995.ece
  51. https://www.hcisingapore.gov.in/pdf/EoI_Document_Tuna_Multi_Product_SEZ.pdf
  52. https://www.yatra.com/distance-between/distance-from-kandla-to-ahmedabad.html
  53. https://www.airmilescalculator.com/distance/ixy-to-bhj/
  54. https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Nearby-Airports/K%25C4%2581ndla
  55. http://blueeconomytribunal.org/wp-content/uploads/008_SIPC_Kandla.pdf
  56. https://www.maritimegateway.com/kandla-port-opens-dock-rail-terminal-handling-types-cargo/
  57. https://www.unisco.com/international-ports/kandla-india
  58. https://indiarailinfo.com/search/kand-kandla-to-adi-ahmedabad-junction/8307/0/60
  59. https://www.distancefromto.net/between/Kandla%2BAirport/Bhuj
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  61. https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2090985
  62. https://www.cnbctv18.com/business/companies/india-government-announces-major-projects-to-boost-capacity-at-kandla-port-with-rs-57000-crore-investment-19536171.htm
  63. https://infra.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/railways/deendayal-port-authority-to-pilot-indias-first-autonomous-magnetic-rail-freight-movement/122510147
  64. https://www.deendayalport.gov.in/en/tenders/%25E0%25A4%2595%25E0%25A4%25BE%25E0%25A4%2582%25E0%25A4%25A1%25E0%25A4%25B2%25E0%25A4%25BE-%25E0%25A4%25AE%25E0%25A5%2587%25E0%25A4%2582-%25E0%25A4%25B8%25E0%25A5%258D%25E0%25A4%25AE%25E0%25A4%25BE%25E0%25A4%25B0%25E0%25A5%258D%25E0%25A4%259F-%25E0%25A4%2594%25E0%25A4%25A6%25E0%25A5%258D%25E0%25A4%25AF%25E0%25A5%258B/
  65. https://www.3tiprogetti.it/projects/smart-industrial-port-city-sipc-at-kandla-gandhidham-adipur-complex/
  66. https://schools.org.in/kachchh/24011001076/s-v-p-gujarat-vidhyalaya.html
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  68. https://ddceadipur.org/about-gmm/
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  70. https://www.freshersworld.com/jobs/apprenticeship-training-jobs-in-kandla-deendayal-port-trust-945657
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  83. https://deshgujarat.com/2025/10/20/diwali-2025-celebrations-in-gujarat-today-with-lakshmi-pujan-on-kartik-amavasya/
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  100. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1092105-d7379897-Reviews-Om_Cineplex-Gandhidham_Kutch_District_Gujarat.html
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