Shipping Minister Sonowal Unveils Eight Key Infrastructure Projects As New Mangalore Port Marks Golden Jubilee

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the Golden Jubilee Curtain Raiser of the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, marking five decades of the port’s vital role in India’s maritime growth.

To commemorate the milestone, the Minister launched eight major infrastructure and development projects designed to strengthen India’s maritime logistics, industrial connectivity, and sustainability efforts.

The eight new projects launched include:

• Two pre-engineered covered storage sheds with a total capacity of 14,000 MT.

• A dedicated cruise gate to facilitate smooth entry and exit for international tourists.

• Upgradation of the KK Gate with RFID-enabled systems for cargo handling, along with integrated Customs and CISF facilities.

• Expansion of the Customs House truck terminal, increasing capacity to accommodate 50–80 trucks per day.

• Construction of PQC roads at the MDL Yard, spanning 675 metres and equipped with modern drainage infrastructure.

• Development of a truck parking terminal at Baikampady, spread across 20,000 sq. m., with capacity for 180–200 trucks.

• Establishment of a 150 bed multi-speciality hospital under the PPP model, with a total investment of Rs 107 crore.

• Launch of a dedicated medical mobile application to enhance accessibility for beneficiaries.

He also released a commemorative coin, postal stamp, and the official Golden Jubilee Anthem, honouring NMPA’s contribution to regional trade and employment.

“Today marks a momentous milestone for all of us... From handling just a few thousand tonnes of cargo in its early years, it has grown to handle 46.01 million tonnes in the last financial year,” Sonowal said, highlighting the port’s remarkable evolution since its establishment in 1975.

Reflecting on India’s future vision, he added, “As we move towards Viksit Bharat 2047... our ports will play a crucial role in achieving the target of making India a $30 trillion economy.”

Commending NMPA’s commitment to sustainability, he emphasised that “the economy should not grow at the cost of ecology and environment.”

The minister lauded the port’s adherence to green operations and the national shift toward clean and smart maritime systems through programmes like Harit Sagar, Green Tug Transition, and Green Shipping Corridors.

He further noted that under Sagarmala, 840 projects worth Rs 5.8 lakh crore are in progress.

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