Vizag port invites bids for 2nd container berth

Visakhapatnam Port has called for Request for Qualification (RFQ) bids for the development of second container berth with private participation. The proposed project will need Rs 300-400 crore.

The Indian Ports Association is preparing a report on this project.

The port, at present, has one container berth, which is being operated by Visakha Container Terminal Private Limited, jointly promoted by Dubai Port World and United Liner Agencies of India. The company has invested over Rs 150 crore to create handling facilities.

In 2008-09, VCTPL handled about 88,000 container boxes, which increased to 240,000 boxes in 2011-12. The company expects 15-20 per cent growth year-on-year.

In view of this growth, the port has decided to construct another berth at the existing container terminal, which can handle up to 500,000 boxes. With the new berth, the handling capacity will increase to around 1 million container boxes, a port official said.

“The government currently does not allow foreign vessels in coastal movement but a positive decision may come soon as the marine industry is asking for it. If it happens, Vizag port will develop as major container hub,” he said.

The port is planning to complete the process of awarding the work by the end of second quarter.