Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced an ambitious plan to develop a port-based economy by harnessing the state’s 1,000 kilometre-long coastline. The plan envisions the establishment of ports or fishing harbours at every 50-kilometre interval along the coast, a move the Chief Minister said would stimulate economic growth, generate employment and create critical infrastructure.
“We have unveiled a strategic plan to build a port-based economy by harnessing Andhra Pradesh’s 1,000-kilometre coastline,” Naidu said in a press release issued on Tuesday.
As part of the central government’s bifurcation-era commitment, a key initiative under discussion is the creation of a Ship Building and Repair Cluster at Dugarajapatnam in Nellore district. Based on an initial feasibility report, the project is proposed to be developed over 2,000 acres through a collaborative effort between the central and state governments. Of this, 1,000 acres will be dedicated to core ship-building units and the remaining 1,000 acres to ancillary industries.
The project includes the development of a greenfield port integrated with a ship-building and repair hub. This hub will feature four dry docks, outfitting jetties and a ship-lift facility. The estimated investment from the central government is Rs 3,500 crore, while the Andhra Pradesh government will contribute land as equity.
The Chief Minister said that a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) will be formed to attract global ship-building companies. The project is expected to bring in investments worth Rs 26,000 crore and create 5,000 direct jobs and 30,000 indirect jobs.
Naidu directed officials to prepare a detailed action plan to expedite implementation. He also stressed the importance of enhancing cargo movement through Visakhapatnam Port, highlighting its significance to the state’s overall development.