Government Advances Sagarmala Projects in Andhra Pradesh with New Proposals Worth Rs 3,300 Crore

Minister Sarbananda Sonowal reported to the Lok Sabha about receiving 29 new proposals from Andhra Pradesh under the Sagarmala Project. With an estimated value of Rs 3,300 crore, these initiatives include port development and fish landing centers. Financial aid and funding plans were also detailed for 2023-24 and 2024-25.

Addressing a starred question in the Lok Sabha, Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed receipt of 90 project proposals from Andhra Pradesh and the Visakhapatnam Port Trust under the Sagarmala Project. The proposals detailed estimates, completion timelines, execution plans, and budget allocations for 2023-24 and 2024-25.

Sonowal revealed that the Ministry received 29 new proposals worth approximately Rs 3,300 crore from Andhra Pradesh. These projects, spanning port development and fish landing centers, are part of a broader effort under the Sagarmala Scheme. Financial backing for 13 ongoing projects in Andhra Pradesh, valued at Rs 2,500 crore, was also highlighted, including Ro-Pax jetties, fishing harbors, and skill development initiatives.

Additionally, the Visakhapatnam Port Authority and IWAI are undertaking 36 projects worth Rs 4,600 crore in the state. Of these, 22 projects worth Rs 2,530 crore have been completed, while 14 projects valued at Rs 2,070 crore are in various implementation stages. A new international cruise terminal at Visakhapatnam Port has also been established. Sonowal underscored that projects with high social impact but low return on investment receive financial aid under the Sagarmala Scheme. The Minister urged the Andhra Pradesh government to restructure certain projects and explore funding options under PM GatiShakti.

The Minister reaffirmed the Sagarmala Programme's aim to modernize the maritime sector through Public-Private Partnerships, equity participation, and grant-in-aid assistance. Highlighting the establishment of two Centres of Excellence in Maritime and Shipbuilding, Sonowal noted that the Visakhapatnam centre has trained over 10,000 students. He also mentioned a recent approval for upgrading Visakhapatnam Port Authority's hospital to a 300-bed multi-disciplinary super specialty facility under PPP mode, costing Rs 222.43 crore. This project is expected to rationalize medical expenditures and create job opportunities.

This extensive update underscores the government's unwavering commitment to enhancing maritime infrastructure and promoting coastal community development through the Sagarmala Programme. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)