Mangaluru: Vijay Kumar, secretary, ministry of ports, shipping and waterways (MoPSW), visited New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) on Saturday and reviewed the operations, ongoing projects and future development plans.He gave valuable guidance on enhancing cargo movement through inland waterways and by strengthening coastal shipping within the regions of Karnataka. He also directed to carry out a detailed study on this, including the possibilities of movement of cargo through Gurupura and Nethravati rivers.Upon his arrival at the port, he was warmly received by Sushil Kumar Singh, chairman, NMPA, and S Shanthi, deputy chairperson, NMPA. He subsequently undertook an extensive port visit to obtain first-hand insights into the port’s marine operations, cargo handling facilities, gate automations, infrastructure and ongoing expansion activities.Sushil Kumar Singh and S Shanthi briefed him on various operational and developmental aspects of the port. A review meeting was later held wherein the secretary reviewed the performance, cargo traffic trends, infrastructure augmentation projects, digital initiatives and future business development strategies.He appreciated the efforts of NMPA in improving operational performance, port automation and pursuing infrastructure-led growth to enhance the port’s competitiveness and contribution to the regional economy. He stressed the importance of garnering active support from the state govt for improving the maritime infrastructure as well as development of satellite ports in the region, to achieve the vision of Amrit Kaal 2047.The secretary also held an interactive meeting with port users like MRPL, KIOCL, JSW, IOCL, HPCL etc. and representatives of stakeholders, stevedore agents, industry and trade unions.During the visit, Vijay Kumar inaugurated several developmental works, laid foundation stones for upcoming projects and launched various transformational initiatives valued at Rs 105 crores, aimed at modernising of port operations, improving efficiency, connectivity and employee welfare.Four major infrastructure projects were inaugurated, including MDL Yard Road Network Project, of over 1.1 km of concrete roads, drainage systems and cargo support infrastructure, developed at Rs 7.2 crore. Truck parking facility near Thannirbhavi Road at Rs 4.4 crore, to accommodate 90 trucks simultaneously. Baikampady truck parking terminal, to accommodate 50 trucks and amenities including washrooms, and staging facilities for freight vehicles, at Rs 5.4 crore. PQC Road connecting NH-66 and the Baikampady Industrial Area, developed at Rs 5.47 crore, was also dedicated.The secretary also laid foundation stones for storage shed Inside Wharf, being constructed at Rs 8.6 crore, will provide modern covered storage facilities for bulk and break-bulk cargo.Beautification of Panambur Beach Road project, valued at Rs 5.6 crore, will transform the port’s approach corridor through landscaping, plantation, drainage improvements, retaining walls and aesthetic enhancements.
