Centre launches Rs 276 cr capacity-building initiatives at Visakhapatnam Port
16 Jul 2025
Union
Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal launched
multiple Capacity Building initiatives worth more than Rs 276 crore at the
Visakhapatnam port, according to an official release.
“…
Visakhapatnam Port is undergoing significant capacity enhancement with projects
totalling over Rs 276 crore. These efforts are set to modernise port
infrastructure, improve cargo handling efficiency, and elevate the port’s
status as a leading global maritime hub,” said Sonowal.
The minister laid foundation stones for six projects with
a total investment of more than Rs 116 crores with an aim to build new capacity
for Visakhapatnam port. Key initiatives include the construction of a B-Ramp
within the port area (Rs 33.49 crore) and a new finger jetty and wharf in the
fishing harbour (Rs 32.61 crore) to boost cargo handling and support the local
fishing community.
Further enhancing operational efficiency, the port will
see two additional breasting dolphins at OSTT (Rs 20.87 crore) and an
additional ramp linking the Ambedkar Centenary Flyover to the L-17 corridor (Rs
8.31 crore). To promote cruise tourism and public engagement, a public
promenade near the cruise terminal (Rs 15.90 crore) will be developed, alongside
the construction of toilet blocks at 15 locations across the port area (Rs 5.50
crore), improving amenities and accessibility. Together, these projects aim to
strengthen Visakhapatnam Port’s role as a modern, inclusive, and globally
competitive maritime hub.
Further, Sonowal inaugurated a series of projects at
Visakhapatnam Port with a total outlay of Rs 159.96 crore. Highlights include
the commissioning of the new Oil Refinery Berth-2 (Rs 42 crore) and
installation of advanced fire-fighting facilities at the OSTT Berth (Rs 27
crore), enhancing safety and capacity for liquid cargo. Infrastructure upgrades
feature a covered storage shed at the R-10 area (Rs 22.50 crore), road
improvements from WQ-5 Junction to Essar Junction (Rs 19.69 crore), and expansion
of the customs boundary wall (Rs 7.17 crore).
Strengthening digital
systems, the port will introduce a new RFID gate management system (Rs 15
crore), a modern Port Operating System (Rs 10.77 crore), and a state-of-the-art
Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) worth Rs 15.83 crore, reaffirming
Visakhapatnam Port’s commitment to smarter, safer, and more efficient maritime
operations.