The long-awaited plan to build a dedicated jetty in Mangaluru for seamless passenger and cargo transport to the Lakshadweep islands has taken a significant step forward. The Karnataka Maritime Board has officially initiated the process for a public hearing, bringing the project closer to reality.
Public Hearing to Gauge Community Response
The board has decided to organize a public hearing to gather suggestions and address any objections from citizens regarding the proposed jetty. This crucial meeting is scheduled for December 10. It will be chaired by Deputy Commissioner Darshan HV and will be held at the South Wharf Godown of Mangaluru Port.
This step is a vital part of the project's approval process, ensuring transparency and incorporating public feedback before construction begins.
Project Scope and Key Details
As per the current proposal, the new facility will be a combined cargo and cruise terminal. It is planned to be developed on a total area of 1.6 hectares within the Mangaluru Port area.
Officials stated that the infrastructure will be designed to handle an average of 1 million metric tonnes of cargo annually. This dedicated infrastructure aims to streamline and boost maritime connectivity and trade between the coastal district of Dakshina Kannada and the island territory of Lakshadweep.
Political Push and Central Government Backing
The project has received strong advocacy from local representatives. Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta has recently urged the state government to actively pursue the development of this dedicated jetty at the Old Port to handle Lakshadweep-bound vessels.
He highlighted that the construction of the jetty and associated dredging work was already sanctioned under the central government's Sagar Mala Project approximately three years ago. In fact, the central government had approved various development works in Dakshina Kannada under this scheme, which specifically included building a jetty and terminal exclusively to enhance links with Lakshadweep.
The upcoming public hearing marks a concrete move to translate this sanctioned plan into action, potentially unlocking new economic and tourism opportunities for the region.
