The Central and Andhra Pradesh governments are coordinating efforts to accelerate port-led industrial development and expand the state’s maritime sector, Visakhapatnam Member of Parliament M Sribharat said. He identified the strengthening of Visakhapatnam Port infrastructure as a key priority for improving economic growth, employment generation and investment prospects.

Sribharat said modern maritime technologies, improved transport connectivity and a supportive investment ecosystem would help create new opportunities across Andhra Pradesh. He was referring to discussions held in New Delhi between Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal. Union Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, MPs and senior political leaders were also present at the meeting.

The discussions covered the development of Visakhapatnam Port, the modernisation of ports and shipbuilding facilities across the state, and the expansion of multimodal transport connectivity. The participants also examined the need to develop integrated cargo-handling and logistics infrastructure to support industrial activity and improve the movement of goods.

Sribharat said the initiatives could increase cargo-handling capacity, lower logistics costs, attract industrial investment and create additional employment opportunities for local youth. Better links between ports, industrial hubs and wider transport networks would also strengthen Andhra Pradesh’s competitiveness as a destination for domestic and international investors.

He highlighted Visakhapatnam’s strategic geographical location, established port infrastructure and industrial potential. These advantages, combined with continued investment in maritime facilities and connectivity, could support the city’s emergence as a major maritime trade and industrial hub in India.