Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, inaugurated a series of major infrastructure and technology initiatives at the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA), marking a significant advancement under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. The projects aim to strengthen port capacity, enhance operational efficiency, and promote sustainable maritime growth.
Among the highlights is the commissioning of the EQ-1A Terminal, developed with an investment of Rs 130 crore. Equipped with two 120 ton Harbour Mobile Cranes, the facility adds 3 million ton per annum (MMTPA) to the port’s capacity, improving cargo handling performance and generating employment opportunities.
The Smart Video Surveillance Project, valued at Rs 37.53 crore, was also launched to reinforce port security and operational oversight. The system integrates AI and machine learning analytics with IoT-enabled monitoring through a centralized command and control centre, ensuring comprehensive, technology-driven surveillance.
During the event, Sonowal also flagged off India’s first Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC) ‘Shivalik’ under the Indian flag—a landmark achievement in the nation’s maritime energy logistics.
These initiatives collectively position Visakhapatnam Port as a major strategic hub on India’s eastern seaboard and reaffirm the Ministry’s commitment to creating world-class, sustainable, and technology-enabled ports for the future.