Among the projects, the construction of the EQ-1A berth in the inner harbor is planned. This berth will be designed to handle thermal/steam coal with a capacity of five million tons per annum (MTPA) and is estimated to cost around Rs 366.40 crores. Additionally, a Mechanized Fertilizer Handling Facility will be installed at the EQ-7 berth in the inner harbor, with a capacity of 3.61 MTPA and a cost of Rs 200.99 crore.
The VPA also aims to develop a new WQ-7 and WQ-8 berth in the inner harbor, which will have the ability to handle 6.30 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). The estimated cost for this development is approximately Rs 288.47 crores. Furthermore, the existing WQ-6 berth will undergo revamping to handle dry bulk cargo on a Design-Build-Finance-Operate-Transfer (DBFOT) basis, with a projected cost of Rs 250 crores and a capacity of 5.5 MTPA.
In addition to infrastructure enhancements, the VPA has plans to construct covered sheds spanning 12 acres in the VPA area, providing storage facilities at an estimated cost of Rs 150 crores. Moreover, a Truck Parking Terminal covering 20 acres is being built at a cost of Rs 36 crores to alleviate road congestion and reduce travel time for trucks.
To address environmental concerns and improve cargo handling efficiency, the VPA will electrify railway lines within its area, covering a distance of 38 km, with an allocated budget of Rs 21.30 crore.
The initiation of these nine development projects by the Visakhapatnam Port Authority underscores its commitment to enhancing port infrastructure and facilitating efficient trade operations. These endeavors will contribute to the growth and development of the region's maritime sector and reinforce the Port of Visakhapatnam's position as a vital hub for trade and commerce.
