Andhra Pradesh Approves ₹1,638 Crore Phase-II Land Acquisition for Three Major Port Projects

The Andhra Pradesh government has cleared the Phase-II acquisition of 6,248 acres of land for the expansion of three strategic port projects at Mulapeta, Machilipatnam and Ramayapatnam. The decision, carrying an estimated investment of ₹1,638 crore, marks another significant step in the state’s long-term plan to strengthen maritime infrastructure and position itself as a leading logistics and export hub on India’s eastern coastline.

According to a Government Order issued by the Infrastructure and Investment Department, the expenditure for land acquisition will be financed through the internal resources of the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board (APMB). The approval provides administrative sanction for acquiring the remaining land required to accelerate construction and associated infrastructure at the three ports.

Among the projects, Ramayapatnam Port accounts for the largest share of the acquisition programme. Around 2,924 acres will be acquired at an estimated cost of ₹851 crore. Machilipatnam Port will receive 1,421 acres through an investment of ₹347 crore, while Mulapeta Port will secure 1,903 acres at a cost of ₹440 crore, including expenditure towards resettlement and rehabilitation of affected families.

The state government has consistently identified port-led industrial development as a key driver of economic growth. By expanding cargo handling capacity and improving maritime connectivity, the new port infrastructure is expected to support manufacturing industries, facilitate exports, reduce logistics costs and attract fresh investments across coastal Andhra Pradesh.

Industry observers believe the acquisition will also encourage the development of industrial corridors, logistics parks, warehousing facilities and ancillary businesses around the port regions. Improved connectivity to highways, rail networks and industrial clusters is expected to create additional employment opportunities while supporting the state’s vision of becoming a major gateway for domestic and international trade.

With land acquisition moving into the next phase, the government is expected to accelerate project implementation in the coming months. Once operational, the three ports are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing Andhra Pradesh’s maritime capabilities, strengthening supply chain efficiency and supporting long-term economic development across the region.