VISAKHAPATNAM:

Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi, on Monday visited the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) to assess infrastructure capabilities and review ongoing developmental projects.

VPA Chairperson J.S. Bindra and other senior administrative heads welcomed him.

The visit underscores the Central government’s emphasis on upgrading coastal cargo handling systems and integrating eco-friendly technologies within major Indian ports.

As part of the evaluation, Mr. Gopi took a ride on a specialised launch vessel to inspect the port’s Single Point Mooring (SPM) facilities. The SPM system plays a critical role in handling large crude oil carriers, allowing off-shore unloading to secure raw materials safely and efficiently for regional refineries.

During the off-shore inspection, Mr. Bindra briefed the Minister on day-to-day operations, highlighting how the facility effectively mitigates congestion at internal berths while ensuring the continuous supply of critical energy resources.

The operational briefing also featured an extensive overview of the port’s trade performance, particularly focusing on import and export trends. The VPA Chairperson detailed the modernisation and mechanisation initiatives implemented across various berths to improve cargo evacuation rates and minimise environmental impacts.

Special emphasis was placed on the green initiatives adopted by the port authority. These include transition to renewable energy sources, automated dust suppression mechanisms for bulk cargo, and strict ecological management systems aimed at achieving sustainable maritime trade.

Expressing satisfaction over the progress, Mr. Suresh Gopi commended the VPA leadership and staff for their systematic approach toward upgrading port infrastructure. He noted that the transition toward fully automated and environmentally responsible operations aligns closely with national maritime goals.

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