Andhra Pradesh is making significant strides to establish a shipbuilding and repair cluster, a key initiative highlighted in the recent Union Budget. With its extensive coastline and numerous inland waterways, the state is strategically positioned to enhance India’s maritime ecosystem. Currently, Andhra Pradesh is home to two shipbuilding and repair facilities located near Kakinada Port, which serve as a foundation for further development.
To facilitate the new cluster, a special purpose vehicle (SPV) has been established to oversee the development of a 2,000-acre shipbuilding hub at Duggarajapatnam, operating under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. This location is anticipated to attract additional shipbuilding and repair units, complementing the maritime activities already thriving in Kakinada.
Industry experts predict that this initiative could create thousands of job opportunities for local youth. The presence of major ports, including Gangavaram, Visakhapatnam, and Kakinada Deep Water Port, strengthens Andhra Pradesh’s case for expanding its shipbuilding capacity. Additionally, the Godavari River presents significant potential for inland water transport, although challenges such as multiple bridges hinder progress.
Political support is also evident, with Rajya Sabha member Sana Satish advocating for funding to enhance shipbuilding and repair facilities, alongside improving national waterways in the state. The Bharatiya Janata Party has consistently emphasized the need to utilize the Buckingham Canal for better connectivity since the mid-1990s. Overall, Andhra Pradesh is aligning its initiatives with Union Budget priorities, positioning itself as a vital player in India’s maritime growth.
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