Tue May 13 15:56:10 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing and rewriting the provided text:

**Andhra Pradesh Aims for Port-Based Economy with Coastal Development Plan**

VIJAYAWADA – Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced an ambitious plan Tuesday to transform the state into a port-based economy, leveraging its 1,000-kilometer coastline. The initiative, unveiled during a high-level meeting with Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways officials, envisions establishing a port or fishing harbor every 50 kilometers to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and enhance infrastructure.

A key component of the strategy is the revival of a bifurcation-era commitment to establish a Ship Building and Repair Cluster at Dugarajapatnam in Nellore district. The project, slated to be developed over 2,000 acres, will be a joint effort between the Central and State governments. Plans include a greenfield port integrated with a shipbuilding and repair hub featuring four dry docks, outfitting jetties, and a ship-lift facility. The Central government is expected to invest ₹3,500 crore in the project, with Andhra Pradesh contributing land as equity.

A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) will be formed to attract leading global players in the shipbuilding sector. Officials estimate the project will bring in ₹26,000 crore in total investments, generating direct employment for 5,000 people and indirect employment for approximately 30,000 more.

Chief Minister Naidu instructed officials to immediately develop a detailed action plan to move the project forward. He also discussed strategies to make cargo movement via Visakhapatnam Port more cost-effective and explored opportunities in cruise tourism, including the development of river cruise circuits in regions like Polavaram, Srisailam, and Nagarjuna Sagar.

The plan signals a significant push towards maritime development for Andhra Pradesh, aiming to harness its coastal resources for economic prosperity.

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