Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, has inaugurated a waterfront promenade and laid the foundation stones for several infrastructure development projects at Visakhapatnam Port in Andhra Pradesh.
The projects are part of a major development package aimed at strengthening port infrastructure, improving cargo-handling efficiency and promoting sustainable port operations.
The Union Minister dedicated a 710-metre-long waterfront promenade, developed at an investment of Rs 19 crore, to the public. Spread across approximately 5.5 acres, the facility features two viewing decks, a public plaza, a park, a children’s play area, a food court and visitor parking.
Additionally, foundation stones were laid for three cargo berth operation and maintenance contracts covering WQ-1 and WQ-1RE, WQ-2 and WQ-3, and EQ-3 berths. These projects involve mechanisation of cargo-handling facilities through cranes and conveyor systems, along with environmental protection measures. The projects are expected to generate employment for around 500 local people.
The Union Minister also laid the foundation stone for upgrading the port’s sewage treatment infrastructure at an estimated cost of Rs 11 crore. The project will increase the existing treatment capacity from 10 million litres per day to 15 million litres per day, supporting water reuse for dust suppression and other port operations.
Speaking on the occasion, Sonowal highlighted that Visakhapatnam Port handled a record 91.17 million metric tonnes of cargo during FY 2025-26, registering approximately 10 per cent growth compared to the previous financial year.
He also stated that the port is undertaking four Public-Private Partnership projects worth approximately Rs 800 crore, which are currently under construction and expected to be commissioned by 2027.
The initiatives are aimed at transforming Visakhapatnam Port into a modern, efficient and environmentally sustainable maritime hub while supporting India’s maritime development vision.
