Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, launched a series of capacity-building initiatives worth over Rs 2.76 billion at Visakhapatnam Port. The announcement included foundation stones for six key projects totalling more than Rs 1.16 billion aimed at boosting the port’s cargo handling, connectivity, and passenger amenities.

Among the major infrastructure upgrades are the construction of a B-Ramp within the port premises (Rs 334.9 million), a new finger jetty and wharf in the fishing harbour (Rs 326.1 million), and two additional breasting dolphins at the OSTT berth (Rs 208.7 million). An Rs 83.1 million ramp connecting the Ambedkar Centenary Flyover to the L-17 corridor will further enhance logistics efficiency.

To support tourism and improve public access, an Rs 159 million public promenade will be built near the cruise terminal, and toilet blocks will be developed at 15 locations within the port at a cost of Rs 55 million.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to creating globally competitive maritime infrastructure, Sonowal said the initiatives will modernise the port, improve cargo handling, and elevate Visakhapatnam’s status as a top-tier global maritime hub.

In a further boost to port efficiency, Sonowal also inaugurated projects worth Rs 1.6 billion. These include the commissioning of Oil Refinery Berth-2 (Rs 420 million), installation of fire-fighting systems at OSTT Berth (Rs 270 million), a covered storage shed at the R-10 area (Rs 225 million), road improvements from WQ-5 Junction to Essar Junction (Rs 196.9 million), and expansion of the customs boundary wall (Rs 71.7 million).

On the digital front, the port is rolling out an RFID-based gate management system (Rs 150 million), a new Port Operating System (Rs 107.7 million), and a state-of-the-art Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) worth Rs 158.3 million. The VTMS, operational from 10 July 2025, integrates AIS, radar, and CCTV surveillance and is backed by a 15-year radar feed from the Indian Coast Guard.

Union Minister of State Shantanu Thakur praised the projects for enhancing port efficiency and safety, while MP M. Sribharat highlighted Andhra Pradesh’s port-led growth under CM N. Chandrababu Naidu, including plans for a new port every 50 km along the coast.

Secretary of MoPSW, T.K. Ramachandran, emphasised standardising processes under the One Nation–One Port Process (ONOPP), supporting coastal shipping, and advancing cruise tourism. VPA Chairman Dr M. Angamuthu highlighted Visakhapatnam’s strategic role and the Centre of Excellence in Maritime Skill Development (CEMS) as a key enabler of future-ready port operations.