Mon Aug 18 09:07:33 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text:

**Chennai Port: A Heritage Walk Reveals the City’s Maritime Roots**

**Chennai, August 18, 2025** – A recent heritage walk, “Made of Chennai,” organized by The Hindu and led by architect Thirupurasundari Sevvel, offered a fascinating glimpse into the history and significance of the Chennai Port. Participants were granted rare access to the high-security area, discovering the port’s role as a vital gateway that shaped the city’s identity.

The tour began at the Chennai Port Trust Centenary Building, where officials detailed the port’s origins. While Chennai was founded in 1639, the port wasn’t officially established until 1881, explained Sunil Paliwal, Chairman of the Port Trust. The need for a protected harbour was recognized as early as 1770, but it took decades of lobbying and failed construction attempts before a functional port emerged.

Participants then visited the Steam House, the oldest surviving structure on the port campus. Built in 1938, this building has served various purposes and is now slated for restoration into a museum showcasing the port’s rich history. A trip to the Signal Station provided panoramic views of the docks, cranes, and ships, highlighting the port’s operational nerve center.

The walk concluded at the Royal Madras Yacht Club (RMYC), a historical landmark with connections to World War I. Captain Vivek Shanbhag shared stories of the German warship SMS Emden’s bombardment of Madras in 1914, which left its mark on a painting still displayed at the club.

The “Made of Chennai” walk underscored the port’s importance as the city’s original point of entry, shaping its culture and economy for centuries. Thirupurasundari Sevvel emphasized that the event aimed to celebrate Madras Day by recognizing the port’s contribution to the city’s development.

The “Made of Chennai” event was presented by Casagrand and powered by SRM, in association with Union Bank of India, Tata Tea Chakra Gold, and Tata Coffee. Walk partners included the Port Trust of India and Kamarajar Port Limited.

**Original Text Analysis for summary**

* **Main Topic:** A heritage walk exploring the history of Chennai Port.
* **Key Points:**
* Chennai Port’s origins and its importance to the city’s development.
* Historical sites within the port, including the Centenary Building, Steam House, Signal Station, and Royal Madras Yacht Club.
* The port’s role in Chennai’s cultural and economic identity.
* Emphasis on the port as the city’s “first doorway.”
* Sponsors and partners.

Read More