Viswanathan appointed acting Chairperson of ChPA
In a notable administrative reshuffle, S. Viswanathan, the Deputy Chairperson of the Chennai Port Authority (ChPA), has been given additional charge as Chairperson with effect from Monday. This leadership transition comes at an important time for India’s maritime sector, marking a shift that is expected to influence port operations and inland waterway development across the country.
The change follows the exit of Sunil Paliwal, who relinquished his charge as Chairperson of ChPA on November 30 after being appointed Chairman of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways. Paliwal’s move to IWAI is seen as a strategic decision, particularly as the government intensifies its focus on expanding and modernising the inland water transport network.
According to an official release from the port authority, the transition formally elevates S. Viswanathan to steer ChPA’s operations on an interim basis until a permanent appointment is made. An IAS officer with a strong administrative background, Viswanathan had earlier taken over as Deputy Chairperson of ChPA in April 2023.
The reshuffle arrives at a crucial moment for India’s maritime and inland waterways agenda. With Paliwal now leading IWAI, industry stakeholders anticipate renewed momentum in strengthening inland water transport infrastructure, a key pillar in reducing logistics costs and boosting sustainable cargo movement. Meanwhile, Viswanathan’s experience and leadership are expected to ensure continuity and strategic oversight at the Chennai Port Authority during this period of transition.
As India accelerates its port-led development vision, leadership stability at major maritime institutions like ChPA and IWAI will play a pivotal role in driving policy execution, operational efficiency, and long-term sectoral growth.
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