The Ramayapatnam Port, situated near Chevuru in Gudluru mandal, is being developed over 830 acres in its first phase.
Tirupati: After a period of inactivity, construction work on the Ramayapatnam Port has recommenced. Initially, the plan was for construction of four berths in the first phase, but only one was completed last year.
Dredging operations in the sea are currently under way for the second and third berths. Officials anticipate that these activities will gain full speed in the next 15 days.
The Ramayapatnam Port, situated near Chevuru in Gudluru mandal, is being developed over 830 acres in its first phase. The AP Maritime Board is overseeing the construction under the state government's guidance.
The tenders for the project were invited in 2021 under the YSRC rule. A a joint venture between the Navayuga Engineering Company (NECL) and Aurobindo Realty and Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd won the bid. The foundation was laid in June 2022, and the construction commenced.
The first phase includes the construction of a multipurpose berth, along with a south break-water extending 3.7km and a north breakwater of 1.35km. While initial plans were its for completion by December 2023, various challenges delayed the project.
Infrastructure development works, such as the railway line and a four-lane road connecting the national highway to the port, spanning 500 metres, are pending.
These projects mainly faced problems of environmental clearance. As of now, the lining and sectioning works of the breakwater feeders remain incomplete.
There was a four-month halt after the 2024 elections and change of government in AP. However, the construction activities have resumed by NECL.
“Over the past five days, dredging operations, as well as the construction of the second and third berths and breakwater feeder sectioning and lining, have recommenced. Within the next four days, these works will intensify. Construction of the railway line, the four-lane road and three buildings will also begin,” an official said.
The Ramayapatnam port is a significant infrastructure project for AP, aiming to enhance maritime trade and economic development in the region. Once fully operational, the port is would handle substantial cargo volumes, contributing to the state's economic growth.
To further boost economic activities, the state government has announced plans to establish a Mega industrial hub near the Ramayapatnam port. This hub aims to attract major industries, facilitate exports and generate employment opportunities for the region.
