The Union government is committed to establishing a world-class shipping cluster at Dugarajapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, as announced by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. Speaking on the VLGC Shivalik, he noted that the Detailed Project Report for the cluster is nearing completion. Sonowal emphasized the Centre’s support for the state’s maritime initiatives and highlighted discussions with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu regarding the project.
The cluster will span 2,000 acres with an estimated investment of ₹26,000 crore, which includes a ₹3,000-crore ship-breaking and recycling facility. Feasibility studies by the Visakhapatnam Port Authority indicate that the project could create approximately 5,000 direct jobs and 30,000 indirect jobs. This initiative aligns with Andhra Pradesh’s vision of establishing a port every 50 km to stimulate port-led economic growth.
During the event, Sonowal also flagged off the maiden voyage of SCI’s Shivalik, an 82,000-cubic-metre LPG carrier recently integrated into the Indian fleet. This milestone enhances India’s gas logistics capabilities and supports the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in energy and shipping. Notable figures such as Vizag MP M. Sri Bharat were present at the ceremony.
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