Andhra Pradesh to get third major port, 3 locations identified

VISAKHAPATNAM: Three places have been recognised for the location of another important port in Andhra Pradesh, and in all probability it is expected to come up here, said Mr G Srinivasa Rao, State Minister for Ports and Infrastructure.

Mr Srinivasa Rao, has recently inducted into the State Cabinet, has been speaking at a meet-the-press programme organised by the Vizag Journalists' Forum here. He also stated that Nakkapalli in Visakhapatnam district, Ramayapatnam in Prakasam district and another place in Nellore district have being considered for establishing the port.

Moreover, a group of experts have visited the three places and also will take a final decision in this regard. He also stated that in all probability Nakkapalli is expected to be chosen.

The Machilipatnam port had been given a consortium of NEC and NCC groups and a few issues like land allotment required to be sorted out. In this month itself, the issue is expected to be solved and the work on the project is expected to start. The state government would be taking steps to develop Kalingapatnam and Bhavanapadu and some firms such as Nuzvidu Seeds, Gangaram Port and Essar had displayed keen interest in taking up the projects. Moreover, bids will be invited for the projects also.

A proposal to establish Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board has been pending for 2-3 years.