Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, has launched a series of infrastructure projects worth ₹276 crore at Visakhapatnam Port, aiming to bolster its capacity and operational efficiency. These initiatives are part of the government’s broader strategy to transform Indian ports into world-class maritime hubs.
Key Developments:
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Capacity Enhancement Projects (₹116 Crore): The foundation stones for six major projects were laid, including the construction of a B-Ramp within the port area (₹33.49 crore), a new finger jetty and wharf at the fishing harbour (₹32.61 crore), and two additional breasting dolphins at the Outer Harbour Single Point Mooring Terminal (₹20.87 crore). Additionally, an extra ramp linking the Ambedkar Centenary Flyover to the L-17 corridor (₹8.31 crore) and a public promenade near the cruise terminal (₹15.90 crore) were announced. To enhance public amenities, toilet blocks will be constructed at 15 locations across the port area (₹5.50 crore).
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Modernisation and Safety Upgrades (₹159.96 Crore): The minister inaugurated several projects aimed at modernising port operations, including the commissioning of Oil Refinery Berth-2 (₹42 crore) and advanced fire-fighting facilities at the OSTT Berth (₹27 crore). Infrastructure improvements feature a covered storage shed at the R-10 area (₹22.50 crore), road upgrades from WQ-5 Junction to Essar Junction (₹19.69 crore), and expansion of the customs boundary wall (₹7.17 crore). Digital systems enhancements include a new RFID-based gate management system (₹15 crore), a Port Operating System (₹10.77 crore), and a state-of-the-art Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) worth ₹15.83 crore. The VTMS, operational since July 10, 2025, integrates AIS, radar, and CCTV monitoring of all crafts within port limits and supplies IVTS format data to the National Maritime Data Acquisition Centre (NMDAC) in Noida.
Strategic Vision:
Minister Sonowal emphasized that these projects align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to enhance India’s maritime infrastructure. He highlighted that the initiatives aim to modernise port facilities, improve cargo handling efficiency, and elevate Visakhapatnam Port’s status as a leading global maritime hub. The projects reflect the government’s commitment to building world-class port infrastructure that drives economic growth, creates opportunities, and strengthens India’s maritime capabilities.
