VPA sets new maritime records, redefine cargo handling standards

In a remarkable feat of maritime achievement, the Visakhapatnam Port Authority shattered numerous longstanding records in May 2024, marking a historic milestone in its 90-year legacy. The port’s exceptional performance, driven by collaborative efforts with business partners, has propelled it to unprecedented heights, rewriting the narrative of cargo handling prowess.
A staggering 85,81,927 metric tonnes of cargo were transported through the port in May 2024, facilitated by the arrival of 221 ships, setting an unparalleled benchmark in the port’s history. This remarkable figure eclipses the previous record set just months earlier in March 2024, when 76,22,732 metric tonnes of cargo were handled by 201 vessels.
Among the standout achievements is the import of 22,35,891 metric tonnes of  Coking Coal and Steam Coal via 48 vessels, surpassing the previous record set in July 2002. Additionally, the handling of 14,27,223 metric tonnes of crude oil, facilitated by 13 crude tankers, further underscores the port’s capacity for managing diverse cargo types. In container freight, the port recorded a significant milestone with the export of 70,539 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of containers, a notable increase from the previous record set in August 2023. Importantly, the import of 5,04,815 metric tonnes of bauxite and 4,37,270 metric tonnes of manganese ore signifies the port’s expanding role in facilitating critical raw material shipments. Moreover, the port’s efficiency in freight transportation was evident with the utilization of 1405 rakes, surpassing the previous record set in January 2024.
Dr M Angamuthu, Chairman of the Visakhapatnam Port Authority, expressed his happiness over the record-breaking performance achieved in May. He attributed the success to the port’s robust management capacity and emphasized the importance of sustained efforts to further elevate its standing in the maritime sector. “As we celebrate these remarkable achievements, we must continue to strive for excellence and innovation in the field of seafaring,” remarked Dr. Angamuthu, highlighting the port’s commitment to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in maritime operations.
The unprecedented success of the Visakhapatnam Port Authority in May 2024 not only showcases its operational prowess but also highlights its pivotal role in facilitating trade and commerce, further solidifying its position as a key maritime hub in the region.