The Gangavaram port has handled 20.74 million tonnes of cargoes during 2014-15 as against 15.81 million tonnes during the previous financial year, according to port authorities.

During the year, the port handled 15.70 million tonnes of coal (11.32 million tonnes the previous year), 1 million tonne of iron ore (1.37 million tonnes), and 4.04 million tonnes of other cargoes (3.12 million tonnes).

The port is doubling its capacity from the present 30 million tonnes to 60 million tonnes with an investment of Rs 1,300 crore. It is building an additional fully mechanised coal terminal capable of handling capesize vessels upto 2 lakh DWT. Three more multi-purpose berths capable of handling panamax vessels are also being constructed as a part of the expansion project. Additional rail sidings, mechanised stock yards and related infrastructure are also being built up.

LNG terminal : The Gangavaram port, along with Petronet LNG, has taken up construction of a land-based LNG terminal with a capacity of 5 million tonnes per annum at a cost of Rs 4,500 crores.

This terminal, along with another one coming up at Kakinada of a similar capacity, will cater to the energy needs of Andhra Pradesh and the neighbouring states on the east coast.

sarma.rs@thehindu.co.in

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