Chief Minister approves Mangaluru Water Metro project

A water-iron ferry leaves from the High Court terminal in Kochi. The Mangaluru Water Metro project has been proposed online in Kerala. |Picture source: File Photo

Chief Minister Siddarmaiah on Wednesday approved the proposed Mangaluru water and iron project, which will link Bajal to Maravoor on both banks of the Netravati and Gurupura rivers.

Officials said the Karnataka Maritime Commission (KMB) proposed a water and iron project on Kerala’s Kochihang Line with multiple connection facilities such as national highways, ports and airports.

Officials said KMB will prepare detailed project reports for the project and, if implemented, it will be defined as India’s second largest water transport system.

At the meeting convening the inland transport project, the Chief Minister also approved the proposal to establish a Karnataka Water Transport Training Centre in Mangaluru under the Sagamara project.

According to a press release from the Chief Minister’s Office, discussions were held on the state’s port development, progress of water transport projects, and the basic facilities required for cargo transportation.

The Chief Minister directed officials to review the land allocation lease period for rehabilitation and port-related actions and submit proposals. He also directed officials to expel the occupiers at the earliest.

He directed Deputy Commissioner Uttara Kannada to conduct a drone survey involving the comprehensive development of islands identified in the region and to submit a report within three months.

At that time, the Chief Minister and fisheries and port Mankal Vaidya also issued the Karnataka Inland Transport Policy, 2024.

The Chief Minister ensures all support for the development of ports in the state, directing officials to study and submit a report on how Andhra Pradesh, Visaka Patnam, Kerala, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat operate.