Andhra Pradesh Government Approves ₹544 Crore for Major Port and Shipbuilding Land Acquisition
The Andhra Pradesh government has taken a significant step toward boosting its maritime infrastructure by sanctioning a substantial amount of over ₹500 crore for land acquisition. This move is specifically aimed at developing the ambitious Dugarajapatnam Green Field Port & Shipbuilding Cluster, a project expected to enhance the state's industrial and economic landscape.
Financial Sanction and Land Details
In a recent government order (GO), MT Krishna Babu, the special chief secretary of the Infrastructure & Investment (Ports) Department, announced that the state has accorded administrative sanction for ₹544.3 crore. This funding is allocated to acquire a total of 2,170.7 acres of land, which is essential for the port and shipbuilding cluster's development. The chief executive officer of the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board (APMB) will oversee this acquisition process.
The project requires exactly 2,171 acres of land, as confirmed by a technical feasibility report prepared by RITES. Out of this total, 1,932 acres are categorized as patta land and habitation areas, while 239 acres consist of government-owned land. This careful breakdown ensures a structured approach to the acquisition, minimizing potential disputes and streamlining the development timeline.
Geographical Distribution Across Districts
The land has been strategically identified in two key districts: Tirupati and Nellore. In Tirupati district's Vakadu mandal, the acquisition spans four villages, totaling 1,995 acres. Specifically, these include:
- Pathetipalem village: 251 acres
- Vagarru village: 530 acres
- Valamedu village: 724 acres
- Pamanji village: 489 acres
In Nellore district's Kota mandal, an additional 176 acres have been earmarked, distributed as follows:
- Kothapatnam village: 46 acres
- Puchalapalli village: 129 acres
This distribution highlights the project's extensive reach and its potential to impact multiple local communities, fostering regional development and job creation.
Funding and Implementation Strategy
The total tentative cost for acquiring the 2,170.7 acres across both districts is estimated at ₹544.3 crore. According to the government order, the APMB will be responsible for mobilizing the necessary funds to cover this land acquisition cost. This financial planning underscores the state's commitment to ensuring the project's smooth execution without delays.
The sanction follows a thorough examination by the government, reflecting a well-considered decision to invest in infrastructure that could position Andhra Pradesh as a hub for maritime activities. The Dugarajapatnam Green Field Port & Shipbuilding Cluster is poised to become a cornerstone of the state's industrial growth, attracting investments and boosting trade capabilities.
As the APMB moves forward with the acquisition, this project is expected to not only enhance port facilities but also stimulate ancillary industries, contributing to overall economic prosperity in the region.
