The Kakinada gateway port, which is currently under construction at a cost of Rs 21.23 billion in a vast area of 1,944 acre at Kona village within the Kakinada SEZ, is expected to be completed in the span of 18 months. This announcement was made by Andhra Pradesh Minister for Fisheries and district in-charge Minister Dr Seediri Appalaraju. Dr Appalaraju stated that the port would be ready within 18 months during an event, where he delivered his customary address as the chief guest at the Independence Day celebrations held at the police parade grounds. He further noted that upon becoming operational, the port would create direct job opportunities for 2,500 individuals, and indirectly contribute to the employment of an additional 10,000 people. He also mentioned that around 3,800 individuals are anticipated to find employment in the upcoming Divis Laboratories, Cale Pharma, and Lyphus Pharma units within the district. Additionally, a substantial workforce of 30,000 labourers is expected to secure stable employment due to the modernisation efforts at the age-old Kakinada anchorage port. Highlighting the comprehensive development and rapid progress across various sectors within the district, the Minister attributed these positive changes to the government's esteemed Navarathnalu program. He shared that a significant number of farmers in the district, totaling 1.74 lakh, received financial aid amounting to Rs 1.31 billion. This assistance was directly deposited into their bank accounts through schemes such as YSR Rythu Bharosa and PM Kisan. Furthermore, farmers who faced substantial losses due to natural disasters were granted input subsidies totalling Rs 30.23 million. Dr Appalaraju emphasised the effective functioning of the police department in the district. By implementing road safety measures, the department managed to reduce road accidents by 14% over the course of the year. He praised the success of the Varadhi program, which facilitated frequent interactions between the police and local villagers. These interactions aimed to address local issues, including social problems, and resolve them amicably, thereby enhancing friendly relations and bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community. Furthermore, Dr Appalaraju highlighted the positive outcomes of awareness programs conducted by the police. These programs covered topics such as the Disha Act, Disha police stations, Disha APP, cybercrimes, social media frauds, and anti-ragging measures. He expressed his satisfaction with the dividends yielded by these initiatives. Also read:  Adani Ports for minimum 50yrs of concession period DP World signs concession pact for tuna-tekra terminal