The Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has achieved a remarkable feat in cargo handling, setting a new operational benchmark. The port managed to move 60 million metric tonnes (MT) of cargo in just 249 days of the current financial year, significantly faster than previous years.
A Record-Breaking Pace
This achievement highlights a substantial improvement in efficiency. In the last financial year (2024-25), reaching the same 60 MT milestone took 273 days. Going further back to 2023-24, it required 275 days. The reduction of nearly a month in handling time underscores the port's enhanced operational capabilities and throughput.
Buoyed by this performance, the port has set an ambitious target of handling 90 MT of cargo by the end of the current financial year. Officials believe that the rapid achievement of the 60 MT mark will provide strong momentum and confidence in reaching this larger goal.
Leadership and Team Effort
VPA Chairman, Dr. M. Angamuthu, expressed his elation at the record-setting performance. He extended congratulations to the entire port staff, terminal operators, and trade partners whose collective effort made this possible.
Dr. Angamuthu stated that this accomplishment is a direct reflection of the dedication of the port's employees and the sustained trust of its business partners. He reaffirmed the port's commitment to continuous improvement, focusing on enhancing capacity, developing critical infrastructure, and pushing forward with digitalisation and green port initiatives.
Growth Amidst Challenges
The record comes on the back of a strong year for VPA. In 2024-25, the port handled its highest-ever annual cargo volume of 82.62 MT. Notably, this growth was achieved despite facing global trade fluctuations and various logistical challenges.
The port reported increased volumes across several key commodity segments, including:
- Crude Oil
- Manganese Ore
- Bauxite
- Rice
- General Cargo
This diversified growth indicates the port's robust role in facilitating both bulk and general trade, strengthening its position as a pivotal gateway for India's eastern coast. The focus on digitalisation and green initiatives is also expected to make the port more competitive and sustainable in the long term.
