Visakhapatnam. Today, Visakhapatnam Port is recognized as a major logistics hub on the maritime trade map, though it began nearly nine decades ago with the export of limited mineral ores. Operations at the modern port commenced on October 7, 1933, with the arrival of the vessel SS Jaldurga.

Over time, industrial activities expanded, and the variety of cargo handled at the port increased. Today, it serves as a vital maritime transport link not only for Andhra Pradesh but also for Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and other industrial regions across the country. In the 2024-25 fiscal year, the port handled 82.62 million tonnes of cargo.

Port Equipped for Large Vessels

The geographical location of Visakhapatnam Port is one of its key strengths. The natural formation of 'Dolphin's Nose' helps shield the port from adverse sea conditions. The outer harbor has the capacity to handle large vessels of up to approximately 200,000 DWT.

The container terminal features an 845-meter-long quay, four berths, seven quay cranes, and 18 e-RTGs. It offers 4,412 ground slots and a water depth of approximately 16.5 meters. The terminal can handle vessels with a Length Overall (LOA) of up to 390 meters and is equipped with 650 reefer charging points.

To expedite cargo movement, two on-dock rail sidings and six semi-automated gates have also been constructed.

Record-Breaking Container Operations

The operational capability of the Visakhapatnam Container Terminal is evident from recent records. According to available data, the largest vessel handled—featuring a Length Overall (LOA) of 366 meters and a capacity of 15,934 TEUs—was processed in July 2025. That same month saw a record monthly throughput of 62,035 TEUs.

A record parcel size of 3,909 TEUs was logged in October 2025, while a record for handling 100 rakes was set in January 2025. The average vessel turnaround time is reported to be around 20 hours. Peak crane productivity reaches up to 40 moves per hour. The terminal has the capacity to handle three vessels simultaneously and provide berthing immediately upon a vessel's arrival.

Connectivity to Industrial Zones Across Multiple States

The port boasts an extensive hinterland network. It is connected to industrial zones in Odisha such as Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Angul, Kalinganagar, Cuttack, and Bhubaneswar. Key regions in Chhattisgarh—including Korba, Raigarh, Raipur, and Rajnandgaon—are linked to the port, as is Hyderabad in Telangana, which serves as a significant hinterland hub.

Beyond Visakhapatnam, the port's trade network extends to areas in Andhra Pradesh such as Kakinada, Guntur, the Godavari region, Srikakulam, Bobbili, Vizianagaram, and Parwada. Rail connectivity facilitates the transport of containers and other types of cargo to the country's interior regions.

Diverse Range of Export-Import Cargo

Major products exported from Visakhapatnam Port include ferroalloys, aluminum, steel, shrimp, and rice. Conversely, imports comprise scrap, chemicals, refractory materials, heavy minerals, pharmaceutical products, paper, machinery, and spare parts.

Container cargo destined for Nepal is also part of the port's international network. Available data indicates that Nepal-bound cargo reached 45,582 TEUs, marking a 24 percent increase compared to the corresponding period.

Focus on Green Initiatives

Alongside efforts to enhance cargo capacity, the port is also prioritizing environmental conservation. Yard equipment at the terminal—including RMQCs, 18 RTGs, five reach stackers, and a forklift—has been electrified.

Plans are also in place to replace existing diesel-powered trailers with electric vehicles. A green belt spanning approximately 9 acres has been developed, where over 2,200 plants are being maintained. Additionally, a 5 MW solar power plant is planned. In terms of water conservation, the terminal has achieved 'Zero Liquid Discharge' certification.

Employment and Social Responsibility

Under skill development programs linked to the port, 548 individuals have received training. As part of social responsibility initiatives, 32 medical camps were organized, providing free medical assistance to approximately 2,390 people.

Efforts are also being made to increase women's participation in terminal operations. Thus, the port's expansion extends beyond cargo and shipping; its impact is also evident in employment, skill development, and social activities.

Two Major Container Terminals

The Visakhapatnam Container Terminal comprises two major facilities. VCT-I has a quay length of 449 meters and a capacity of 5.50 lakh TEUs, with a concession period extending until September 2032. Meanwhile, VCT-II has a quay length of 395 meters and a capacity of 7.50 lakh TEUs, with a concession period running until March 2049. Having started nearly nine decades ago with the limited export of mineral ores, the Visakhapatnam Port has now evolved into an extensive network connecting large maritime vessels, container operations, rail transport, industrial supply chains, and international trade. Its current annual cargo handling capacity of 82.6 million tonnes reflects its stature and growing importance.