The Government of India has approved a INR 65 crore project to develop a jetty and cruise terminal at Old Mangalore Port under the Sagarmala programme. The initiative aims to strengthen coastal connectivity and improve passenger and freight movement between the mainland and Lakshadweep. Strategically located along key Arabian Sea routes, the facility will support cruise vessels and ferry services linking Karnataka, Kerala and island destinations. The terminal will include passenger handling infrastructure and basic port services. The project is expected to boost cruise tourism, enhance maritime infrastructure, create local employment and support economic activity across coastal and island regions.
The Government of India has sanctioned a INR 65 crore project to construct a jetty and cruise terminal at Old Mangalore Port, under the Sagarmala programme, officials said earlier this week. The approval forms part of an effort to improve coastal connectivity, bolster maritime infrastructure and enhance passenger and freight movement between the mainland and the Union Territory of Lakshadweep.
The project encompasses the development of a dedicated jetty facility along with a cruise terminal at the historic Old Mangalore Port a location identified for its strategic proximity to the Arabian Sea shipping lanes. Authorities noted that the terminal is designed to facilitate cruise vessels and ferry services serving Lakshadweep, Kerala and Karnataka, and to promote economic and tourism linkages across these regions.
Under the Sagarmala initiative, which aims to modernise India's port infrastructure, increase cargo throughput and support integrated coastal economic zones, the jetty and cruise terminal are expected to provide a reliable maritime gateway. The terminal will be equipped to handle passenger inflows, support logistics operations and offer basic terminal services, including embarkation and disembarkation facilities, waiting lounges and safety infrastructure.
Officials said the development would not only enhance maritime connectivity but also stimulate tourist traffic between the mainland and island destinations. Mangalore and nearby coastal regions have been identified as key nodes within the Sagarmala framework for enhancing cruise tourism, coastal shipping services and allied hospitality ecosystems.
The approved funding of INR 65 crore is anticipated to cover construction costs, port works, shore facilities and auxiliary support infrastructure. Project proponents expect the initiative to create economic opportunities for local stakeholders, boost employment in marine and tourism sectors, and provide a new gateway for passenger movement to and from Lakshadweep.
The project is expected to move into detailed design and execution planning soon, with authorities coordinating between the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the Sagarmala Development Company, state port departments and local agencies to accelerate implementation.
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