Visakhapatnam Port has posted record throughput in recent years. What is driving this cargo growth?
We’ve had an excellent run over the past two years. In FY 2024–25, VPA handled 82.62 million tonnes (MT) of cargo—our highest ever—surpassing the previous year’s 81.09 MT. This growth has been broad-based across commodities, including crude oil, ores like manganese and bauxite, rice, and general cargo. What’s notable is the strength of our container trade, which continues to grow at a healthy pace. VPA now ranks among the world’s top 20 container ports by performance, a distinction that reflects not just volumes but our increasing service quality.
Our growth strategy has centred around diversifying cargo profiles, strengthened connectivity, and simplified processes for stakeholders. Even in a globally volatile trade environment, we’ve remained resilient. By continuously engaging with trade partners, investing in equipment, and making VPA a predictable and efficient hub, we’ve been able to attract and retain more cargo.
What makes VPA stand out in terms of performance indicators and global competitiveness?
Our improvement in global rankings has been remarkable. In the World Bank’s Container Port Performance Index, we jumped from rank 122 to 19 within a year. This was no coincidence. We’ve implemented targeted enhancements in terminal productivity, digitization, and turnaround time reduction.
Today, at our container terminals, we achieve 27.5 crane moves per hour. Vessel turnaround time averages just 21.4 hours, and idle time at berth is as low as 13 per cent. These figures are competitive by global standards and critically important to shipping lines. We’ve also made consistent investments in process automation, workforce training, and marine coordination. As a result, we’re seeing increasing trust and confidence from global carriers.
Our philosophy is continuous benchmarking. We measure ourselves against the best, not just within India, but internationally. Operational excellence is not a one-time achievement; it’s a culture we nurture every day.
How is VPA improving customer satisfaction and trade facilitation?
Customer-centricity is at the heart of our operations. We understand that for shippers, consignees, and carriers, predictability and responsiveness are key. That’s why we have invested in 24×7 operations, online single-window systems, and regular stakeholder engagement.
A case in point: When a rail disruption caused a backlog of 2,847 Nepal-bound containers, we quickly mobilized. Coordinating with Indian Railways and Maersk, we rerouted cargo, increased train frequency, and cleared the backlog within a week. That’s the level of responsiveness we aim for.
We also conduct regular trade meets and feedback sessions to capture pain points and resolve them. Whether it’s documentation delays, storage issues, or cargo evacuation challenges, our approach is proactive and solutions-oriented.
What are the major infrastructure projects currently underway at the port?
We’re in the midst of a transformative infrastructure expansion worth $18.01 mn (₹1,563 crore). This includes new berths, modernized terminals, a mechanized fertilizer handling facility, and increased PPP participation.
By 2026, we aim to operate 15 berths under the PPP model, bringing in greater efficiency and private sector innovation.
We’re also enhancing our support facilities—12 acres of covered storage, a 20-acre truck terminal, electrification of 38 km of internal rail lines, and acquisition of new mobile harbour cranes. These upgrades will increase our annual capacity to over 100 MTPA and boost productivity, safety, and sustainability.
Additionally, our focus is on seamless intermodal connectivity. These infrastructure upgrades are designed not just for higher capacity, but also for faster, safer, and greener cargo handling.
Nepal is emerging as a strategic partner for VPA. Could you elaborate on this relationship?
Yes, Nepal is a very important trade partner. Since being designated as Nepal’s second gateway port, we’ve steadily built up our engagement. We handle both imports and exports, including containerized goods and fertilizers.
Recently, we hosted a high-level Nepalese delegation to explore expanding this partnership. One proposal discussed was to allow bulk fertilizer movement through Vizag—a move that could redirect 150,000 to 200,000 tonnes of cargo annually. They see VPA as a reliable alternative to Kolkata and Haldia.
We’ve assured Nepal of full support—be it warehousing, rail logistics, or documentation. Their feedback was encouraging, and they mentioned a potential volume increase to 1.5–2 lakh tonnes with improved facilitation. We are fully committed to helping Nepal connect with global markets through our port.
How is VPA reducing vessel turnaround times and improving last-mile connectivity?
Turnaround time (TRT) has always been a key metric for us. A decade ago, vessels spent days at berth. Now, an average container vessel turns around in about 21 hours. This improvement is the result of closely coordinated marine and landside operations—from pilotage and tug deployment to cargo evacuation and documentation.
To strengthen hinterland connectivity, we’re building a 3.3 km flyover in collaboration with Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd. This $3.46 mn (₹300 crore) project will eliminate 11 level crossings and streamline truck movement to and from the port. On the rail front, electrification and improved yard capacity have reduced train turnaround times.
We’re also deepening and widening the navigation channel to handle larger vessels more efficiently. These efforts not only save time and cost but make us a preferred port for global carriers.
What are the key sustainability and innovation initiatives being implemented at VPA?
Sustainability is a core pillar of our long-term vision. We’re aligned with India’s Green Ports initiative and are actively working toward net-zero carbon emissions. Our roadmap includes expanded solar power generation, electric and hybrid port equipment, and a one-million-tree afforestation program.
We’re investing in clean cargo handling systems—mechanised conveyor belts, dust suppression technologies, and covered storage. Our truck terminal reduces congestion and pollution, while planned projects like shore power and a green hybrid tug further our green goals.
On the innovation front, we’re implementing the National Logistics Portal – Marine, smart yard systems, cargo pipe conveyors, automated mooring, and robotic handling arms.
We also plan to launch a hackathon to crowdsource green tech solutions for port operations.
These initiatives are not just good for the environment—they also build customer confidence, improve efficiency, and help us stay future-ready.
What are your growth targets and vision for VPA by 2030?
Our immediate target is to handle 90 MT of cargo this fiscal and cross the 100 MTPA milestone soon after. By 2030, we aim to operate largely under the landlord model, focusing on regulation and facilitation while private players manage terminal operations.
VPA is well-positioned to be a top global port—not just in volume, but in value. With strong fundamentals, robust infrastructure, and a highly motivated team, I’m confident we will achieve this.
Finally, what message would you like to share with your stakeholders?
Our journey of transformation is driven by the collective strength of our ecosystem—our employees, shipping lines, trade partners, logistics providers, and government agencies. I sincerely thank each one of them for their trust and commitment.
At VPA, we operate with a clear mission: to deliver efficient, sustainable, and globally competitive port services. We are open to feedback, agile in responding to change, and relentless in our pursuit of excellence. Together, we will make Visakhapatnam Port a model of maritime leadership and a true engine of regional and national growth.
