Sagarmala implementing 840 projects worth INR 5.8 lakh crore: Sonowal

Minister launches major development projects at NMPA during the Curtain Raiser of its Golden Jubilee celebrations 

The Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Mr Sarbananda Sonowal, inaugurated the Curtain Raiser Ceremony of the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) at Bharat Mandapam here this week.

To mark the milestone, he launched eight major maritime development projects aimed at boosting India’s port infrastructure, logistics efficiency and sustainability. The projects include a state-of-the-art cruise terminal, modern covered storage facilities, a 150-bed multi-speciality hospital, expanded truck terminals, and upgraded port access infrastructure designed to improve user experience and operational capacity.

Speaking on the occasion, he highlighted that under Sagarmala, 840 projects worth `5.8 lakh crore are being implemented by 2035. Of these, 272 projects worth `1.41 lakh crore have been completed, while 217 projects worth `1.65 lakh crore are currently underway.

“Today marks a momentous milestone for all of us. The New Mangalore Port, our ninth Major Port established in 1975, has evolved into a key hub for importers and exporters in the region. 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, with a total capacity of 104 million tonnes per annum. A new deep-draft general cargo berth is also under construction and will commence operations soon.”

Reflecting on India’s long-term goals, he added, “As we move towards ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, our ports will play a crucial role in achieving the target of making India a $30 trillion economy. To become a ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, we must also become a Viksit Atmanirbhar Maritime Nation by 2047”.

Focus on sustainable growth

The Minister underscored the need for sustainable and environmentally responsible growth, commending NMPA’s efforts toward green operations. 

He highlighted that India’s ports are transforming into smart, sustainable and technology-driven gateways in line with global standards. Initiatives such as the ‘Harit Sagar Guidelines’, ‘Green Tug Transition Programme’, ‘Harit Nauka Scheme’ and ‘Green Shipping Corridors’ are accelerating India’s transition toward a clean-fuel, electric-vessel, and green maritime ecosystem.

The eight new projects launched under NMPA include:

* Construction of two covered storage sheds (14,000 MT capacity, pre-engineered design)

* Construction of a dedicated cruise gate for international tourists

* Modification of KK Gate entrance and exit with RFID-enabled cargo handling, Customs and CISF facilities

* Expansion of truck parking terminal (Customs House) with a capacity for 50-80 trucks per day

* Construction of PQC roads at MDL Yard (675 meters, with drainage facilities)

* Development of truck parking terminal at Baikampady (20,000 sq. m, capacity for 180-200 trucks)

* Establishment of a 150-bed multi-speciality hospital under PPP mode with an investment of INR 107 crore

* Launch of a dedicated medical app for beneficiaries

The Golden Jubilee of NMPA will be celebrated later this year, marking 50 years of the port’s role in advancing India’s maritime trade and regional development.

The event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, including Mr R. Lakshmanan, Joint Secretary (Ports), and Dr Venkata Ramana Akkaraju, Chairman, New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), along with other senior officials as well as dignitaries, said a release.

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