Shipping Minister Sonowal Applauds Visakhapatnam Port Authority for Record Growth

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has congratulated the Visakhapatnam Port Authority for achieving its highest-ever cargo throughput of 91.17 million metric tonnes (MMTs) during the 2025-26 financial year, describing the feat as a significant milestone in the growth of India’s maritime sector.

In a letter addressed to VPA Chairperson M. Angamuthu, the Union Minister appreciated the port for registering a growth of 10.34 per cent over the previous fiscal year. He stated that the achievement reflected the port’s strategic planning, operational efficiency, and resilience in sustaining growth despite global trade uncertainties and logistical challenges faced by the shipping industry.

Mr. Sonowal praised the efforts of the Chairperson, senior officials, employees, and the entire workforce for their collective contribution towards improving cargo handling productivity and reducing vessel turnaround time. He noted that the port’s continued focus on modernisation, digital initiatives, and infrastructure optimisation had played a key role in enhancing its overall performance.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of stronger coordination among stakeholders, including shipping lines, exporters, importers, and logistics operators, in ensuring seamless and customer-centric services.

According to him, the Visakhapatnam Port Authority has emerged as a model for other major ports through its efficient management practices and commitment to service excellence.

Mr. Sonowal observed that the achievement aligned with the Union government’s vision of developing future-ready maritime hubs under the Sagarmala initiative and improving ease of doing business in the ports and shipping sector.

He said the record cargo handling had further strengthened Visakhapatnam’s position as one of the country’s leading maritime gateways and a key centre for trade and commerce on the eastern coast.