Andhra Pradesh forms port proximal area development authorities for all seaports

The Andhra Pradesh government has announced the creation of Port Proximal Area Development Authorities (PPADAs) for every seaport operating under the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board (APMB), aiming to streamline infrastructure planning and coordinated development around the state’s coastal hubs.

The decision, formalized through G.O. MS No.15 issued on October 30, was made under the provisions of Section 15(2) of the APMB Act, 2018. Each PPADA will oversee and regulate development activities within a 10-kilometre zone extending inland from the respective port limits, without exceeding the port’s defined exclusivity boundaries along the coast, as specified in the relevant concession agreements.

Each authority will be chaired by the Chairman of the APMB, with the concerned Port Officer serving as Member Convener. Other members will include the APMB CEO, District Collectors, General Managers of District Industries Centres, Superintending Engineers from the Roads & Buildings and Water Resources Departments, senior officials from DISCOMs, the Divisional Railway Manager, NHAI Regional Officer, District Panchayat Officers, Vice-Chairpersons of Urban Development Authorities, Municipal Commissioners, and Executive Engineers (Marine) of APMB.

The newly established PPADAs will be responsible for preparing comprehensive master plans for the designated port-adjacent areas and submitting them to the State government for approval and notification. These master plans are expected to serve as the guiding framework for future industrial, infrastructural, and urban development around Andhra Pradesh’s maritime gateways.

Furthermore, local bodies and planning authorities will be required to obtain prior approval from the PPADAs before sanctioning any construction or development projects that are not consistent with the notified master plans.

The move marks a significant step toward integrated coastal development, ensuring that port-led growth is supported by well-coordinated planning, infrastructure expansion, and regulatory oversight across Andhra Pradesh’s rapidly developing maritime zones.