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Visakhapatnam Port handles record 85 million tonnes of cargo, plans major dredging for coastline protection

#Infrastructure News#Infrastructure#India#Andhra Pradesh#Visakhapatnam
Last Updated : 16th Mar, 2026
Synopsis

Visakhapatnam Port Authority has achieved a milestone, handling over 85 million tonnes of cargo in 345 days, the highest in its 92-year history. The port aims to reach 90 million tonnes this year and 100 million tonnes in 2026-27, reflecting strong operational growth. Alongside cargo achievements, the VPA has launched a major three-year dredging and beach nourishment project worth nearly INR 83 crore to support coastline conservation and prevent erosion at key areas, including RK Beach, in coordination with the state government.

Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has set a new benchmark by handling over 85 million tonnes of cargo in just 345 days of the current financial year, marking the highest throughput in its 92-year history. The achievement reflects consistent growth in cargo handling and enhanced operational efficiency.


VPA Chairperson M Angamuthu said that the milestone was possible due to the dedicated efforts of the entire port team and strong coordination with stakeholders. He highlighted that the port is on track to achieve its ambitious target of 90 million tonnes for this financial year. Looking ahead, the port aims to reach 100 million tonnes in cargo handling during the 2026-27 financial year, underlining the facility's sustained growth momentum and streamlined processes.

Alongside cargo operations, the VPA has begun its annual maintenance dredging at the New Sand Trap (NST), port approaches, and other key areas including the Outer Harbour Turning Basin, Ore Berth-1 and 2, Multipurpose Berth, Iron Ore Conveyor, and Inner Harbour Turning Basin. The project, part of ongoing beach nourishment efforts, is estimated at nearly INR 83 crore and will be executed over three years, from 2025-26 to 2027-28. Each year, about 2.5 lakh cubic metres of silt will be removed, with dredging scheduled for roughly 45 weather-working days annually.

The dredged material will be pumped ashore to support beach nourishment, aiding in controlling coastal erosion. Angamuthu noted that the first year's dredging commenced earlier this week with the deployment of the Dredging Corporation of India's vessel, Dredge XXI. The initiative also contributes to conserving Ramakrishna (RK) Beach, with the port continuing to collaborate with the state government to protect Visakhapatnam's coastline.

Source PTI



FAQ

1. What recent cargo milestone has Visakhapatnam Port achieved?

Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) handled over 85 million tonnes of cargo in just 345 days, marking the highest throughput in its 92-year history. This reflects consistent growth in operations, efficiency improvements, and strong stakeholder coordination.

2. What are the port's cargo targets for the near future?

VPA aims to reach 90 million tonnes in the current financial year and 100 million tonnes by 2026-27, demonstrating its ambition to strengthen cargo handling capacity and sustain operational momentum.

3. What dredging and coastal protection projects are being undertaken?

VPA has initiated a three-year dredging and beach nourishment project worth nearly INR 83 crore. Key areas include the New Sand Trap (NST), port approaches, Outer Harbour Turning Basin, Ore Berths, Multipurpose Berth, Iron Ore Conveyor, and Inner Harbour Turning Basin. Around 2.5 lakh cubic metres of silt will be removed each year over 45 working days, with material pumped ashore to aid beach nourishment and prevent coastal erosion.

4. How does dredging help protect the coastline?

The dredged material is used to nourish RK Beach and other nearby shorelines, helping control erosion caused by tides and wave action. The project supports sustainable coastal management in collaboration with the Andhra Pradesh state government.

5. Which organization is executing the dredging operations?

The dredging work is being carried out by the Dredging Corporation of India using vessels such as Dredge XXI. Annual dredging schedules ensure minimal disruption to port operations while maintaining navigable waterways.

6. Why is this milestone significant for Visakhapatnam Port?

The record cargo handling demonstrates VPA's operational efficiency, strategic planning, and growth potential. Coupled with coastal protection efforts, it reinforces the port's position as a major gateway for trade in eastern India while ensuring environmental sustainability along the Visakhapatnam coastline.

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