The state government has authorised the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board decided to go ahead with tenders for the first phase of the prestigious Machilipatnam port. It has also authorised financial assistance of Rs.10 bn to begin works on the project. The Maritime Board has prepared the groundwork based on a detailed project report cleared by the government. The government has further authorised the Maritime Board to acquire 225-acre land required for the first phase. The board would spend Rs.900 mn on land acquisition, and also seek to raise Rs.47.45 bn for the project. The state has also taken up three new ports for development, while the existing Kakinada Port in East Godavari would be redeveloped.