Mangaluru: A dedicated jetty for Lakshadweep, complete with cargo-handling facilities and a modern passenger cruise terminal, is set to come up at the Old Mangalore Port at an estimated cost of ₹65 crore under the Union government’s Sagarmala Scheme. Officials confirmed that the project has already secured Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance, while the final environmental clearance certificate is currently awaited. Once the approvals are in place, the Karnataka government and the Union Territory of Lakshadweep will formalise the project through a bilateral agreement.
The proposed infrastructure aims to strengthen maritime connectivity between Mangaluru and the Lakshadweep islands, which depend heavily on the port for cargo supply, transportation of essentials, and passenger movement. The new facilities are expected to significantly improve ease of travel, efficiency of cargo operations, and safety standards at the busy port.
Major infrastructure planned
The project includes a 303.60-metre berth for cargo operations and a 76-metre berth dedicated to passenger services. On the waterfront, 9,800 square metres will be earmarked for cargo-related activities, while 6,000 square metres will be allocated for the passenger terminal. Officials said these specifications were finalised to meet the rising movement of essential commodities and increasing passenger traffic between the islands and mainland Karnataka.
A key civil-work component involves the construction of a wharf for vessels and cargo operations at an estimated cost of ₹3,861.36 lakh. The wharf will be designed to accommodate Lakshadweep-bound cargo vessels of various capacities and ensure smooth berthing operations even during peak season.
The project also focuses on enhanced comfort for passengers. A dedicated passenger cruise lounge building will be developed at a cost of ₹536.10 lakh. The lounge will include a waiting area, toilets, and food service facilities to ensure a seamless travel experience. The authorities expect this terminal to boost cruise tourism and improve the experience of island residents travelling to and from the mainland.
Supporting facilities to modernise port operations
To strengthen storage and handling infrastructure, a godown with a capacity of 1,000 metric tonnes will be constructed at a cost of ₹127.32 lakh. This is expected to improve the efficiency of storing and dispatching essentials such as food grains, construction materials, fuel, vegetables, and packaged goods, all of which Lakshadweep depends on from Mangaluru.
The port will also undergo dredging up to seven metres at a cost of ₹288.20 lakh. This depth enhancement is crucial for accommodating vessels of higher tonnage and improving navigational safety. As cargo volumes increase year after year, deeper berths will help the port handle larger ships without operational delays.
In addition to major structures, the project includes several essential amenities designed to improve security, accessibility, and overall functionality. These include installation of X-ray baggage inspection systems, handheld metal detectors, public toilets, drinking water facilities, landscaped garden areas, lift facilities inside the passenger lounge, firefighting equipment, and signage across the jetty and building zones.
Officials emphasised that these additions would align the port’s facilities with international safety norms while improving the overall passenger experience.
Boost to island connectivity and economic activity
The Lakshadweep islands rely heavily on Mangaluru Port for cargo movement. With the new jetty and upgraded infrastructure, turnaround time for both passenger and cargo vessels is expected to reduce significantly. Improved logistics will assist the Union Territory administration in ensuring timely supply of essentials to the islands, especially during rough weather when shipping schedules become unpredictable.
The dedicated passenger terminal is also expected to enhance the travel experience of tourists heading to Lakshadweep, potentially boosting the region’s tourism-driven economy. The development aligns with the Sagarmala Scheme’s broader vision of modernising ports, enhancing coastal connectivity, and generating employment.
Officials noted that once the environmental clearance is received, work is expected to begin soon. The Karnataka state government and the Lakshadweep administration will then sign a formal agreement outlining operational responsibilities and future management of the jetty.
Conclusion
The planned Lakshadweep-dedicated jetty at Old Mangalore Port represents a major step in strengthening maritime links between the islands and mainland Karnataka. With a modern cruise terminal, expanded cargo infrastructure, and improved safety standards, the project is expected to benefit residents, tourists, and regional trade for years to come.