The Andhra Pradesh government is preparing to relocate dust-generating bulk cargo operations from Visakhapatnam Port to the new Mulapeta Greenfield Port. This phased transition aims to reduce urban pollution and enhance the new port’s operational viability.
Minister for Investments and Infrastructure BC Janardhan Reddy stated that the relocation aligns with Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s vision of making Visakhapatnam a clean and eco-friendly hub for IT and investment. By moving coal, minerals, and other bulk commodities out of Visakhapatnam’s urban area, the initiative aims to alleviate pollution concerns for residents while ensuring consistent cargo volumes for Mulapeta once operational.
This shift will also ease congestion at Visakhapatnam Port, reducing vessel turnaround times and demurrage costs, while fostering industrial growth in the Mulapeta region. It is part of a broader strategy to keep the port area free from heavy dust cargo.
Additionally, the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has proposed acquiring a 49-50% equity stake in the Mulapeta Port Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), fostering a close connection between the two facilities. A Group of Ministers will review these proposals before seeking cabinet approval.
