Andhra to develop port-based economy with Rs 3,500 crore project: Chandrababu Naidu

By Admin

21 Jul, 2025

Harnessing the Coastline for Growth

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform the state’s economy by leveraging its vast 1,000-kilometre-long coastline. With a vision to establish ports or fishing harbours at every 50-kilometre interval, this initiative aims to unlock the maritime potential of the state, drive economic growth, generate employment, and build critical infrastructure.

Strategic Port Development Plan

“We have unveiled a strategic plan to build a port-based economy by harnessing Andhra Pradesh’s 1,000-kilometre coastline,” Naidu announced in a press release. The state's long coastline offers a unique opportunity to develop a robust maritime economy that not only boosts trade but also supports local livelihoods through fisheries and allied activities.

Ship Building and Repair Cluster in Nellore

One of the flagship initiatives under this port-based economic strategy is the development of a Ship Building and Repair Cluster at Dugarajapatnam in Nellore district, a project aligned with the central government’s bifurcation-era commitments. Spread across 2,000 acres, the project is set to become a major hub for maritime infrastructure in India.

• 1,000 acres will be allocated for core ship-building units.
  
  

• 1,000 acres will house ancillary industries.
  
  

• The plan includes the establishment of four dry docks, outfitting jetties, and a modern ship-lift facility.
  
  

Investment and Employment Opportunities

The total investment in this greenfield port and ship-building hub is projected at ₹3,500 crore from the central government, with the Andhra Pradesh government contributing land as equity. The state will also form a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to attract global ship-building companies, facilitating international collaborations.

This mega project is expected to:

• Attract ₹26,000 crore in investments.
  
  

• Create 5,000 direct jobs.
  
  

• Generate 30,000 indirect employment opportunities, significantly boosting the local economy.
  
  

Boosting Trade through Visakhapatnam Port

The Chief Minister also emphasized the role of Visakhapatnam Port in enhancing cargo movement and accelerating the state’s industrial and economic development. He instructed officials to prepare a detailed action plan for the timely execution of all initiatives and stressed the need to integrate port development with broader industrial and trade growth strategies.

A New Maritime Era for Andhra Pradesh

With this forward-looking initiative, Andhra Pradesh is poised to become a maritime powerhouse. The combination of infrastructure, investment, and innovation will not only create jobs but also place the state on the global map as a hub for shipbuilding, logistics, and port-led development.

This bold step by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu marks the beginning of a new era for Andhra Pradesh one that is anchored in its coastline and sails towards sustainable growth.