Archive · 22 Jul 2026
Andhra Pradesh considers shifting bulk cargo from Visakhapatnam to Mulapeta port
The Andhra Pradesh state government is thinking about moving the handling of big, dirty cargo like coal and minerals from the Visakhapatnam port to a new port called Mulapeta.
This is to make Visakhapatnam cleaner and less polluted, following the chief minister's plan to make it a global hub for technology and investments.
The new port is expected to start with some cargo and then take on more over time.
The Visakhapatnam port wants a big share in the new port and some special rights to use its docks.
A group of ministers will look at this plan and give their advice to the government.
Andhra Pradesh government is evaluating a proposal to shift bulk cargo handling from Visakhapatnam to Mulapeta port.
The move aims to reduce pollution in Visakhapatnam and strengthen Mulapeta port's commercial viability.
Bulk cargo includes coal and minerals, which generate dust and contribute to air pollution.
Visakhapatnam Port Authority seeks a 49-50% equity stake in Mulapeta port and allocation of berths.
A Group of Ministers will review the proposal and submit recommendations to the state government.
- Who
- Andhra Pradesh state government, Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA)
- What
- Proposal to shift bulk cargo handling from Visakhapatnam to Mulapeta port
- When
- Proposal is currently under evaluation
- Where
- Visakhapatnam and Mulapeta, Andhra Pradesh, India
- Why
- To reduce pollution in Visakhapatnam and strengthen the commercial viability of Mulapeta port
Environmental and Economic Benefits
Potential Challenges
Environmental Impact
Environmental and Economic Benefits
Shifting bulk cargo to Mulapeta port will significantly reduce air pollution in Visakhapatnam, aligning with the vision of a clean, pollution-free city.
Potential Challenges
The shift may lead to increased pollution levels in Mulapeta and surrounding areas, potentially causing environmental concerns.
Economic Viability
Environmental and Economic Benefits
The move is expected to ease congestion at Visakhapatnam port, improve vessel turnaround time, and lower logistics costs for shipping companies, while ensuring steady cargo volumes for Mulapeta port.
Potential Challenges
The initial investment and operational costs for Mulapeta port may be high, and the economic benefits might take time to materialize.
- Proposal Initiator
- Andhra Pradesh state government
- Key Minister
- B C Janardhan Reddy
- Chief Minister
- N Chandrababu Naidu
- Ports Involved
- Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA), Mulapeta port
- Cargo Types
- Coal, minerals
- Equity Stake Proposed
- 49-50%
- Berths Allocation
- 2 in first phase, 2 in second phase