Vizag Port crosses 90 MMT cargo, eyes 100 MMT

Visakhapatnam: The Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has set a target of handling 100 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo within the next two years, after crossing the 90 MMT mark for the first time in its history. The port recorded its highest-ever cargo throughput of 91.17 MMT in the financial year 2025–26, registering a growth of 10.35% over the previous year and securing fourth place among major ports in India. The previous best was 82.62 MMT in FY 2024–25, marking a milestone in the port's 92-year history.VPA chairman Dr M Angamuthu said the authority is planning to operate Mulapeta Port in collaboration with the government of Andhra Pradesh (GoAP). He added that a special purpose vehicle (SPV) is being jointly planned by VPA and GoAP for the development of Duggarajapatnam Port and a shipbuilding unit.He assured the citizens that the port is moving towards handling non-dusty cargo, with plans to divert more coal operations to Mulapeta Port. Expansion, he said, would be driven by mechanisation. He also informed that four LPG ships are scheduled to arrive this month, enhancing LPG supply capacity.Strong cargo growth was a key factor in crossing the 90 MMT mark. POL and crude cargo grew by 13% to 28.11 MMT, iron ore by 15%, and fertilisers by 42%. Reduced turnaround time, lower berth delays and improved productivity ensured faster vessel handling and higher throughput.The port also adopted Gemini operations for heavy-lift cargo, improved productivity and turnaround, and made efficient use of the Single Point Mooring (SPM), including first-ever crude oil loading, demonstrating operational versatility. Operational performance highlights included single-day cargo handling of 5,50,198 metric tonnes, 24 vessel movements in 24 hours, and high berth occupancy with 28 of 32 berths engaged.Continuous development of berths, storage facilities, roads and an extensive railway network of 176 km with 40 sidings enabled efficient cargo evacuation and higher capacity utilisation. The port's ability to handle cape-size vessels of up to 2,00,000 DWT and deep drafts of 16–21 metres further enhanced operational efficiency, helping VPA achieve record cargo handling.