Visakhapatnam Port Authority initiated a major phase of infrastructure expansion with the foundation stone laying of multiple development projects worth Rs 230 crore during the third edition of the Indian Lighthouse Festival. The ceremony was led by Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and marked a key step in the port’s long-term modernisation roadmap.
The projects are designed to enhance safety standards, operational efficiency and institutional capacity at one of India’s most strategically important ports. The programme also includes investments aimed at improving ship repair facilities, administrative infrastructure and residential amenities for port employees, reflecting a comprehensive approach to port-led development.
A significant portion of the investment has been allocated to upgrading fire-fighting systems at the LPG berth to enable the safe handling of large vessels of 40,000 DWT and above in accordance with OISD-156 norms. This project, which includes five years of operation and maintenance, involves an outlay of Rs 52.24 crore.
Ship repair capabilities at the ORS Dry Dock will also be strengthened through infrastructure development and a long-term licensing arrangement for 15 years, backed by an investment of Rs 35.87 crore, supporting the port’s growing role in marine maintenance and servicing.
To improve governance and operational coordination, a new Administrative Office Building will be constructed with an investment of Rs 97.70 crore. In addition, residential apartments will be developed at Harbour Park at a cost of Rs 44.20 crore, aimed at enhancing housing facilities and welfare for the port’s workforce.
The foundation-laying ceremony formed part of the broader Indian Lighthouse Festival, which integrates maritime heritage with contemporary infrastructure development. The event highlighted the evolving role of lighthouses as both navigational assets and tourism destinations, contributing to coastal economic activity and public engagement.
With these new projects, Visakhapatnam Port is set to strengthen its position as a key gateway in India’s maritime network, supporting higher cargo volumes, safer operations and improved service standards while aligning with the government’s vision of building future-ready and globally competitive ports.