VPA cargo throughput hits record 91.17 MMT

The Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has achieved its highest-ever cargo throughput of 91.17 million metric tonnes (MMT) in the financial year 2025–26, registering a growth of 10.35% over the previous year’s 82.62 MMT.

Chairperson Dr. M. Angamuthu attributed the milestone to coordinated efforts by the port’s workforce, stakeholders, and partner agencies, including the Railways, Customs, and the Andhra Pradesh government. He said the performance reflected sustained operational efficiency and added that the port is now aiming to surpass the 100 MMT mark.

Outlining plans, Dr. Angamuthu said VPA would collaborate with the State government to operate Mulapeta Port. He also noted that a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) is being envisaged jointly for the development of Duggarajapatnam Port and a shipbuilding facility. The port intends to increase its share of non-dusty cargo, with coal handling expected to be shifted to Mulapeta, alongside expansion through greater mechanisation.

The port recorded notable growth across key cargo segments. Petroleum, oil, and lubricants (POL) and crude volumes rose to 28.11 MMT, an increase of 13%, while iron ore traffic grew by 15% and fertilisers by 42%. It also registered its highest-ever single-day cargo handling of 5,50,198 metric tonnes and handled 24 vessel movements within 24 hours, indicating improved turnaround efficiency.

Operational performance was supported by high berth utilisation, with 28 of the 32 berths in active use. The port’s infrastructure, including a 176-km rail network with over 40 sidings, facilitated efficient cargo movement. It also demonstrated the capability to handle Cape-size vessels of up to 200,000 deadweight tonnage (DWT) and deployed Gemini operations for handling heavy-lift cargo.

Deputy Chairperson Smt. Roshni Aparanji Korati commended the team’s efforts and called for sustained momentum to achieve the 100 MMT target in 2026–27.