Andhra Pradesh extends deadlines for four port projects

Andhra Pradesh has extended contractors’ deadlines to complete four ports under construction: Mulapeta, Ramayapatnam, Machilipatnam and Kakinada. The projects were delayed for various reasons. The government estimates that their first phases together will provide annual cargo-handling capacity of 108 million metric tonnes.

The new completion targets are June 2027 for Mulapeta, April 2027 for Ramayapatnam, December 2027 for Machilipatnam and September 2028 for Kakinada. Reported construction progress is about 78%, 80%, 59% and 45%, respectively. Kakinada is being developed under a public-private partnership; the other three are being built by the state government.

Notable Points

• Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board: The Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board was established in 2019 as an autonomous body under the Andhra Pradesh Port Policy 2015. Its functions include monitoring state ports, supporting port development and improving connectivity with hinterland areas.
• Ramayapatnam Port approach channel: Ramayapatnam Port’s 11.83-kilometre approach channel is designed to be 16 metres deep and at least 200 metres wide. It can accommodate vessels with a draft of 15.5 metres without tidal assistance.
• Historic management of Kakinada Port: In the early twentieth century, the Cocanada Port Conservancy Board managed Kakinada Port under the chairmanship of the district collector. It funded port infrastructure from landing and shipping dues and rents collected within port limits.