Historic milestone for Srikakulam

1. Mulapeta Port project will generate employment opportunities for nearly 35,000 to 50,000 people, both directly and indirectly
2. In the first phase, four berths with an annual handling capacity of 23.50 million tonnes are being constructed

For the development of Srikakulam district, construction of the ambitious Mulapeta Greenfield Port reached a major milestone with the arrival of the dredger Vishwateja at the port berth for the first time. The dredger belongs to Viswasamudra Engineering Private Limited, the contractor executing the prestigious project.

Experts have described the event as a historic turning point that signals the near completion of the port and its readiness to commence operations. The arrival of the dredger is being viewed as a strong indicator that construction activities have entered the final phase and that the port is steadily moving toward operational status.

The development is expected to transform the economic landscape of Srikakulam district, long considered one of the more backward regions of Andhra Pradesh. With dredging operations now underway, the pathway has been cleared for full-scale port activities. The Mulapeta Port project is poised to have a significant impact on the regional economy. Several major industrial players have already expressed interest in setting up units near the port, bringing in substantial investments. Officials estimate that the project will generate employment opportunities for nearly 35,000 to 50,000 people, both directly and indirectly.

Strategically located, the port is expected to serve as a vital export-import hub for landlocked states such as Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. It will facilitate large-scale movement of commodities like coal, fertilizers, and iron ore, providing a crucial gateway for bulk cargo transportation.

The Phase-1 works of the project are progressing at a rapid pace with an estimated investment of Rs.4,362 crore. In the first phase, four berths with an annual handling capacity of 23.50 million tonnes are being constructed. Designed with a draft depth of 52 feet, the port will be capable of accommodating massive vessels of up to 1,20,000 DWT. Additionally, plans are underway to connect the port with the upcoming Bhogapuram International Airport through a 200-kilometer greenfield coastal national highway, further strengthening regional connectivity and logistics infrastructure.

Accordingly, a revised deadline of November 30, 2026 has been set for project completion. The company aims to finish berth construction by June this year and make the port fully operational by November. With progress now back on track, Mulapeta Port is steadily shaping up to become a key driver of economic growth and industrial development in Andhra Pradesh.