₹1500 Cr Projects Launched at VOC Port to Boost Green, Digital Maritime Growth

Post by : Avinab Raana

Photo : X / ITLN Live

Visakhapatnam’s historic VOC Port took a transformational leap forward as Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated over ₹1500 crore of integrated infrastructure projects aimed at modernising the port’s operations, enhancing sustainability and reinforcing its role as a leading gateway in India’s maritime landscape. The launch signals a decisive shift toward VOC Port infrastructure that is both environmentally conscious and digitally enabled, a move expected to elevate cargo efficiency and position the port as a model for smart port logistics.

At the inauguration ceremony, Sonowal emphasised that these landmark projects represent a strategic investment in future-ready infrastructure that will enable smoother cargo handling, reduced operational costs, and a smaller environmental footprint. The integrated package spans green energy initiatives, advanced port systems, and enhancements in logistics automation, all designed to strengthen the port’s competitive edge in regional and global trade networks.

A centerpiece of the initiative is the roll-out of green maritime projects focused on reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency across port operations. This includes the installation of electric cargo handling equipment, solar power expansions, and shore-power facilities that allow docked vessels to operate on cleaner energy while berthed. Port officials highlighted that these efforts are aligned with national sustainability commitments and support India’s broader climate goals, particularly in heavy industrial sectors like shipping and logistics.

In parallel with sustainability upgrades, VOC Port is embracing digital transformation through the implementation of smart systems that optimise cargo flow, tracking and port operations. The new projects include real-time monitoring platforms, automation of key freight handling processes, and enhanced data analytics for predictive planning. These capabilities fall under the umbrella of smart port logistics, where integrated digital tools improve turnaround times, reduce bottlenecks, and enhance transparency for stakeholders across the supply chain.

The ₹1500 crore investment is expected to create a substantial economic multiplier effect, supporting thousands of jobs during construction and operational phases. It also enhances connectivity with hinterland industries by enabling faster movement of bulk, container and project cargo. Exporters and importers are expected to benefit from the improved throughput and reduced operational delays, while logistics service providers will gain from a more reliable and predictable handling ecosystem.

Business leaders, port users and logistics experts attending the launch praised the focus on sustainability and digital readiness. Many noted that as global shipping standards evolve, particularly around cleaner fuel use and supply chain visibility ports that adopt advanced infrastructure early will attract more international traffic. The VOC Port’s new investments were framed as a timely step toward meeting these expectations and capturing future growth opportunities.

With the launch now complete, attention will turn toward rapid implementation and operationalisation of the new facilities. Port authorities have outlined phased timelines for commissioning various modules, with performance metrics designed to benchmark improvements in efficiency, emissions reduction and cargo handling speed. As VOC Port accelerates its transformation, it is set to become a benchmark for smart ports and logistics hubs- both in India and across the broader Indian Ocean maritime network.

VOC Port infrastructure, green maritime projects, smart port logistics