Major Infrastructure Boost for Machilipatnam Seaport with New Road Project
In a significant development for Andhra Pradesh's port infrastructure, the Central government has approved a substantial allocation of Rs 573.77 crore for the construction of a critical six-lane external port connectivity road. This project will link the junction of National Highway-65 and National Highway-216 directly to the Machilipatnam seaport, utilizing the Machilipatnam bypass section of NH-216.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Announces Funding Approval
The announcement was made by Union Minister for Road Transport and National Highways, Nitin Gadkari, through a post on his official X profile on Thursday. Gadkari detailed that the road infrastructure initiative will feature a comprehensive six-lane main carriageway complemented by service roads. Additionally, the project includes the construction of three flyovers and an overpass-cum-railway overbridge to ensure smooth traffic flow.
The minister emphasized that this connectivity project is designed to provide direct and seamless access between the Machilipatnam seaport and the national highway corridor. This enhancement is expected to significantly reduce freight turnaround times, alleviate traffic congestion in the region, and substantially boost overall logistics efficiency for port operations.
Andhra Pradesh Government Welcomes the Initiative
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed gratitude to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for sanctioning the funds dedicated to developing external seaport connectivity at Machilipatnam port. Naidu highlighted the project's crucial role in linking the hinterland to the port, which is anticipated to drive down logistics costs and stimulate economic growth in the area.
The chief minister further assured complete support from the Andhra Pradesh government to expedite all national highway projects, including this newly sanctioned external road connectivity to Machilipatnam port. This commitment underscores the state's proactive approach to infrastructure development.
Project Specifications and Timely Execution
Providing specific details, Andhra Pradesh Roads and Buildings Minister BC Janardhan Reddy confirmed that the sanctioned project involves building an eight-kilometre-long, six-lane road. This road will effectively connect the port with the junction of NH-65 and NH-216, forming a vital transportation link.
With port construction works advancing rapidly, Minister Reddy noted that the timely execution of this connectivity road is essential. It will ensure the port becomes fully accessible and operational concurrently with its commissioning, maximizing the infrastructure's potential from the outset.
This strategic investment is poised to transform Machilipatnam into a more efficient logistics hub, enhancing its competitiveness and supporting regional economic development through improved transportation networks.
