PNS|Vijayawada
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has announced an ambitious strategy to build a port-based economy in Andhra Pradesh by capitalising on the state’s 1,000-km-long coastline. The plan envisions the establishment of a port or fishing harbour every 50 km to drive economic development, generate employment, and enhance infrastructure.
During a high-level review meeting at the State Secretariat with officials from the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, including Union Secretary TK Ramachandran, Naidu underscored the need to fast-track port and maritime infrastructure.
A major highlight of the discussions was the proposal to develop a Shipbuilding and Repair Cluster at Dugarajapatnam in Nellore district, as part of the Central Government’s bifurcation-era assurances. The project, backed by a preliminary feasibility report, will be developed across 2,000 acres with joint support from the Centre and State.
The greenfield port project will include four dry docks, outfitting jetties, and a ship-lift facility. Of the total area, 1,000 acres will be reserved for core shipbuilding operations, while the remaining will host ancillary industries.
The Centre will invest Rs 3,500 crore, and the State will contribute land as equity.
A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) will be established to attract global leaders in shipbuilding. Officials informed the Chief Minister that the initiative is expected to draw investments totalling Rs 26,000 crore, provide direct employment to 5,000 individuals, and indirectly benefit around 30,000 more.
Naidu directed officials to immediately prepare a detailed action plan to move the project forward. Progress on other ongoing port and coastal development initiatives was also reviewed.
The Chief Minister urged Union officials to make cargo operations at Visakhapatnam Port more cost-effective, stressing its strategic importance to the state.
He was also briefed on opportunities in cruise tourism and instructed officials to explore potential river cruise circuits in scenic areas such as Polavaram, Srisailam, and Nagarjuna Sagar to boost local tourism and economies.
