NMPA handles 50.04 million tonnes cargo during 2025-26

Mangaluru: The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) has crossed a significant benchmark by handling 50.04 million tonnes (MMT) of cargo in its golden jubilee financial year, exceeding the 48.5 MMT target set by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, said  Deputy Chairperson S Shanthi.

She was speaking at a seminar on “Maritime adversities and the role of stakeholders” and the “Indian Port Act 2025” organised by New Mangalore Port Authority on Wednesday. The increase in cargo handling, strengthens NMPA’s position as a fast-growing maritime gateway contributing to India’s trade and economic growth. 

Detailing upcoming projects, Shanthi said the redevelopment of Berth No 9 for liquid bulk cargo will improve draft levels and boost handling capacity to 10.5 MMT. Berth No 13 is proposed to be allocated to captive users, which is expected to reduce congestion at the port. She added that the long-pending Berth No 17 project will soon be put up for tender.

She also noted that eight key maritime infrastructure projects have been initiated recently. Among them, a dedicated cruise terminal gate for international passengers and a 150-bed hospital have already been completed.

The port is adopting Harit Sagar green port guidelines to cut down carbon emissions by 2030. Already four MW solar power plant has been installed as part of efforts to move towards energy self-sufficiency. In addition, digital platforms such as Sagar Samriddhi, Sagar Manthan and the Sagar Setu app are being used to streamline port operations.

Capt LK Panda, former Nautical Adviser to the Government of India, and Capt Anand W Karkare, former Deputy Conservator of Mumbai Port Authority spoke on maritime challenges, regulatory changes and the role of stakeholders.