Andhra Pradesh can become India's maritime gateway to the East, says Sonowal
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted the state's 1,053-kilometre coastline and upcoming shipbuilding projects at the CII Partnership Summit.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said on Thursday that Andhra Pradesh is positioned to become a globally competitive maritime and logistics hub. Speaking at the 31st CII Partnership Summit in Visakhapatnam, Sonowal noted that the state's 1,053-kilometre coastline along the Bay of Bengal provides access to international shipping routes.
According to a report by Daily Excelsior, the Minister stated that the state could serve as India's primary maritime gateway to the Indo-Pacific, East Asia, and ASEAN. He compared the potential of the maritime sector to the technology-led growth seen in Hyderabad.
Sonowal mentioned that foundation stones were laid on Wednesday for projects exceeding Rs 560 crore at Visakhapatnam Port. These initiatives aim to increase capacity, improve the ease of doing business, and generate jobs.
The Minister also discussed a proposed greenfield shipbuilding cluster at Dugarajapatnam, which has received in-principle approval under the National Shipbuilding Mission. This project involves an estimated investment of Rs 30,000 crore and aims for an annual capacity of 1.2 million gross tonnes. A joint entity comprising the Visakhapatnam Port Authority and the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board has been established for this purpose.
Sonowal further highlighted a Rs 10,000-crore Container Manufacturing Scheme and a Rs 10,000-crore Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme. He invited global investors and technology companies to the state, noting that smart ports using artificial intelligence and automation will be essential for future efficiency.