India
Visakhapatnam Port Authority Expands Environmental Monitoring Network in ₹6.54 Crore Project
The Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has partnered with a Rajasthan-based firm to modernize and expand its Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station (CAAQMS) network. The initiative includes an ongoing infrastructure upgrade along with the recent installation of three new monitoring units.
VPA Deputy Chairperson Roshni Aparanji Korati explained that the port's environmental strategy aims to balance industrial development with transparent, data-driven oversight. She stated that the goal is to ensure port logistics and industrial activity operate in harmony with the ecological health of Visakhapatnam, noting that real-time data sharing supports both regulatory bodies and the public in achieving accountable urban environmental management.
The port currently operates three CAAQMS units, installed in 2016 by Environment SA India Pvt Ltd, located at the GCB Gate Area, VPA Fire Station Road, and the R&D Yard Area. A two-year Comprehensive Annual Maintenance Contract (CAMC) worth ₹2.01 crore for these stations was recently awarded to Envea India Private Limited, extending through November 2027.
In addition to this existing setup, VPA has launched a larger expansion project valued at ₹6,53,75,201, awarded to Rajasthan-based Analyser Instrument Co. Pvt. Ltd. This new contract will establish three additional CAAQMS stations at Port Stadium in Akkayyapalem, Harbour Park in Pandurangapuram, and the Oil Berths in Malkapuram. These stations will undergo a six-month trial period followed by a 10-year maintenance contract.
The port's broader environmental monitoring efforts extend beyond air quality. These include a Continuous Marine Water Quality Monitoring System (CMWQMS) positioned between the Inner Harbour Turning Circle and the SL Canal, an Online Continuous Effluent Monitoring System (OCEMS) that monitors the inlet and outlet of the 10 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant, and four Continuous Noise Monitoring Systems (CNMS) installed at the STP zone, the AOB building DG set area, the WQ 5 office, and the TM Control Room near the EQ-3 berth.
To enhance public access to this data, LED display boards showing real-time monitoring readings have been set up along key traffic routes near Port Stadium, Harbour Park, and the entrance to the Naval Dockyard.