Essar builds 24 MTPA iron ore handling complex at Vizag Port

Essar Vizag Terminal has dedicated to the nation its newly-commissioned 24 MTPA Vizag iron ore handling complex, to be inaugurated by Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, Government of India. With an investment of Rs 830 crore, the expansion strengthens the nation’s vision of Sagarmala and coastal cargo movement. “The Vizag iron ore handling complex is a facility that is truly a national asset. We are committed to realising the government’s vision of port-led development,” says Prashant Ruia, Director, Essar.

The complex will have the fastest vessel turnaround time for iron ore among Indian ports. It can now berth Super Capesize vessels up to 200,000 DWT, with a depth of 20 metres, on the outer harbour of Vizag Port. Special emphasis was given to make the iron ore handling complex environment-friendly. Focus on global best practices in mechanisation and sustainable environment protection has significantly reduced dust emission and spillage, thus improving the carbon footprint and working conditions of the port. EVTL has also strengthened the entire 9.5-km conveyor network and upgraded to PLC automation.