Government Drives Major Port Infrastructure Expansion in Andhra Pradesh
The Central government is aggressively advancing port-led infrastructure development in Andhra Pradesh, with four significant ports currently under construction. This initiative forms part of a broader nationwide push to modernize port facilities, enhance operational efficiency, and integrate sustainable practices across India's maritime sector.
Four New Ports Under Construction in Andhra Pradesh
According to information presented in Parliament on Friday, the ports being developed in Andhra Pradesh include Mulapeta Port (previously known as Bhavanapadu Port) located in Srikakulam district, Machilipatnam Port in Krishna district, Ramayapatnam Port in SPSR Nellore district, and Kakinada SEZ Port in Kakinada district. These projects signify a substantial investment in the state's coastal infrastructure, aimed at boosting trade and industrial growth.
Comprehensive Modernization and Digitalization Measures
The government is implementing a multi-faceted strategy to upgrade port operations across the country. Key measures include the mechanization of berths and terminals, extensive digitalization efforts, and improved logistics integration. Additional infrastructure enhancements involve the construction of new berths, capital dredging to accommodate larger vessels, and significant upgrades to road, rail, and waterways connectivity.
To streamline processes and reduce vessel turnaround times, several digital initiatives have been rolled out. These encompass the elimination of manual forms, the implementation of direct port delivery and entry systems, the deployment of container scanners, and the electronic delivery of documents and payments. Furthermore, the adoption of RFID-based gate automation and the Maritime Single Window platform, SagarSetu 2.0, are pivotal in enhancing operational efficiency.
Expansion of Major Ports and Sagarmala Scheme
In a significant move, two new ports—Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra and Galathea Bay Port in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands—have been officially notified as major ports. Currently, India operates 12 major ports under the administrative control of the central government, alongside 68 operational other-than-major ports managed by various state governments.
Under the ambitious Sagarmala scheme, financial assistance is being provided across five critical pillars: port modernization, port connectivity enhancement, port-led industrialization, coastal community development, and the promotion of coastal shipping and inland water transport. This comprehensive framework aims to transform India's maritime landscape.
Green Initiatives and Sustainability Focus
The government has also launched several green and sustainability-linked initiatives to foster environmentally friendly port ecosystems. The HaritSagar green port guidelines have been introduced to promote sustainable practices within port operations. Additionally, the Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP) has been initiated to shift harbor tugs towards greener fuel alternatives, reducing carbon emissions.
To boost tourism, the Cruise Bharat Mission has been launched, prioritizing the development of cruise tourism across the country. These efforts underscore the government's commitment to balancing infrastructure growth with environmental stewardship.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, provided this detailed information in a written reply to the Lok Sabha, highlighting the government's proactive approach to port development and modernization.
