Container operations at the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) are witnessing increased activity, with around 424 TEUs of west-bound containers currently stacked at the Visakha Container Terminal Pvt. Ltd. (VCTPL), according to port sources.
The containers include both export and transhipment cargo, reflecting rising interest from shipping lines looking to utilise the terminal to handle containers destined for West Asian ports.
Cargo presently handled at the terminal mainly comprises ferro alloys, steel and construction materials originating from eastern regions, including Kolkata.
In anticipation of a potential rise in transhipment volumes, the port has identified additional land in and around the container terminal for container stacking. Sources said around 5.5 acres have been earmarked to accommodate additional containers if traffic increases in the coming days.
Port officials said cargo movements and vessel traffic are being closely monitored in view of the evolving geopolitical situation in West Asia, which could lead to changes in shipping schedules and cargo routing.
As part of contingency planning, berths in the inner harbour have also been identified to handle unexpected vessel arrivals or ships that may be diverted from other ports due to operational disruptions. “Priority berthing will be accorded to vessels that may have been stranded because of the prevailing situation and subsequently arrive at the port,” a port official said.
Meanwhile, crude oil imports through the port continue to support refinery operations of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL). Officials said the companies follow diversified sourcing strategies to maintain stability in crude supply.
To meet refinery requirements, HPCL is currently importing crude oil from Russia. Domestic supplies are also being sourced from the Ravva Oil Field and the Krishna-Godavari Basin along India’s east coast, ensuring continuity in refinery operations and crude throughput at the port.