Mangaluru: A major push towards modernising maritime infrastructure and exploring inland waterway cargo transport marked the visit of the Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) to the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) recently.

During the visit, a series of infrastructure projects and development initiatives worth ₹105 crore were inaugurated, launched or taken up for implementation. The visit also focused on strengthening coastal shipping and examining the potential of using Karnataka’s river network for cargo transportation.

The Secretary directed officials to undertake a detailed feasibility study on the movement of cargo through the Gurupura and Nethravati rivers, describing inland waterways as a key component of future logistics development in the region.

He was received by NMPA Chairman Sushil Kumar Singh and Deputy Chairperson S. Shanthi before undertaking an extensive inspection of the port’s marine operations, cargo-handling facilities, gate automation systems and ongoing expansion projects.

At a review meeting, senior NMPA officials presented updates on cargo traffic, infrastructure augmentation works, digital transformation initiatives and business development strategies. The Secretary appreciated the port’s progress in improving operational efficiency, adopting automation and pursuing infrastructure-led growth.

Emphasising the importance of coordinated development, he called for stronger support from the Karnataka government for maritime infrastructure projects and the development of satellite ports to help realise the vision of Amrit Kaal 2047.

The Secretary also interacted with major port users, including MRPL, KIOCL, JSW, IOCL and HPCL, besides representatives of trade bodies, stevedore agencies, industry associations and labour unions.

Among the projects inaugurated were the ₹7.2-crore MDL Yard Road Network Project, the ₹4.4-crore truck parking facility near Thannirbhavi Road, the ₹5.4-crore Baikampady Truck Parking Terminal and the ₹5.47-crore PQC road connecting NH-66 with the Baikampady Industrial Area.

Foundation stones were laid for an ₹8.6-crore covered storage shed inside the wharf area and the ₹5.6-crore Panambur Beach Road beautification project, which will include landscaping, drainage improvements, retaining walls and aesthetic enhancements aimed at improving the port’s approach corridor.