Kakinada Gateway Port Limited (KGPL) is progressing at Thondangi in Kakinada, with works by Auro Infra Private Limited and the first phase likely to be completed by December 2026. The first berth is expected by the end of 2026 and three berths in the first phase are scheduled for completion by December 2027.

KGPL is being developed as one of the deepest ports in the country with a capacity to handle 120 million tonnes (120 mn t) and a planned draft of 20 metres. 25 berths are planned along a six-kilometre shoreline and works have begun across a 1.5 kilometre wide section. An eight kilometre channel between the south and north breakwaters will allow vessels of around 200,000 DWT to reach the berths directly.

The overall project is estimated at Rs 110 billion (Rs 110 bn) for three phases, with Rs 40 billion for the first phase, Rs 20 billion for the second and Rs 50 billion for the third. A further Rs 4 billion (Rs 4 bn) has been set aside for a railway link to support cargo movement. The port will provide direct berthing for cargo, liquid and gas carriers.

Kakinada Special Economic Zone (KSEZ) has allocated 1,600 acres to KGPL for offshore logistics, cargo and fuel imports and exports, and SEZ land has been included in plans for a Bharatmala four lane roadway. The project is expected to support offshore operations for energy and industrial firms including ONGC, GAIL and Reliance and to integrate sea, road and rail connectivity. Project planners estimate that more than 0.15 mn jobs could be created directly and indirectly on completion.

Around projects worth Rs 1.5 trillion (Rs 1.5 tn) are expected to commence over the next two to three years as industries establish in the SEZ and use the port's logistics support. Construction activity remains brisk as work progresses towards the stated milestones.