March 30: In a significant push towards strengthening India’s maritime infrastructure, the Government of India has approved the redevelopment of Berth No. 9 at New Mangalore Port. The project, estimated at ₹438.29 crore, is expected to substantially enhance the port’s liquid bulk handling capacity and improve operational efficiency, aligning with the country’s long-term logistics and energy goals.
The redevelopment will be carried out under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model using the Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) framework. This approach not only ensures private sector participation but also brings in advanced technology and operational expertise for world-class infrastructure development.
Modern Infrastructure to Replace Ageing Facilities
Berth No. 9, which currently consists of ageing infrastructure, will undergo a complete transformation. The existing structure, nearly five decades old, will be dismantled and replaced with a modern, future-ready facility designed to handle liquid bulk cargo such as crude oil, petroleum products, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
One of the key highlights of the project is the enhancement of the berth’s draft. The current draft of 10.5 metres will be increased to 14 metres, with provisions to extend it further up to 19.8 metres in the future. This upgrade will enable the port to accommodate large vessels, including Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGCs), significantly improving its cargo-handling capability.
Boost to Capacity and Efficiency
Once completed, the redeveloped berth will have a cargo-handling capacity of 10.90 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). The private concessionaire undertaking the project will also commit to a Minimum Guaranteed Cargo (MGC) of 7.63 MTPA by the fifth year of operation, ensuring steady utilization and revenue generation.
The project is expected to improve efficiency through the introduction of advanced mechanisation systems. High-capacity Marine Unloading Arms (MULAs), automated mooring systems, and integrated control technologies will be deployed to streamline cargo handling processes. These upgrades will reduce turnaround time for vessels and lower logistics costs, making the port more competitive in the region.
Strengthening India’s Energy and Trade Logistics
The redevelopment comes at a time when India is focusing on expanding its energy infrastructure and reducing logistical bottlenecks. With rising demand for petroleum and gas products, ports play a crucial role in ensuring seamless imports and distribution.
By enabling the handling of larger vessels and increasing throughput capacity, the New Mangalore Port will be better positioned to meet the growing energy demands of southern India, particularly the industrial corridors of Karnataka and Kerala. The improved infrastructure will also enhance supply chain resilience and reduce dependency on multiple smaller shipments.
Economic and Strategic Significance
Beyond operational improvements, the project is expected to deliver long-term economic benefits. The PPP model ensures sustained revenue streams for the port authority through royalty payments linked to cargo volumes. Additionally, the creation of modern infrastructure will attract more shipping lines and industrial stakeholders, boosting regional economic activity.
The construction phase, which is expected to be completed within two years, will also generate employment opportunities and stimulate local businesses. With a concession period of 30 years, including construction, the project is designed to provide lasting value and stability.
Focus on Safety and Sustainability
Handling liquid bulk cargo, especially petroleum and gas products, requires stringent safety measures. The redevelopment plan incorporates state-of-the-art safety systems, including advanced firefighting infrastructure, nitrogen generation units, and automated monitoring systems. These features will ensure compliance with global safety standards and minimize risks associated with hazardous materials.
Moreover, the project reflects a broader shift towards sustainable and resilient infrastructure. By adopting modern engineering practices and efficient technologies, the new berth will have a structural life of around 50 years, ensuring durability and reduced maintenance costs.
A Step Towards Global Maritime Leadership
The redevelopment of Berth No. 9 marks another milestone in India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its ports and strengthen its position in global trade. With increasing emphasis on infrastructure development, projects like this are crucial for enhancing the country’s competitiveness in the international logistics landscape.
As India continues to invest in ports, highways, and multimodal connectivity, the New Mangalore Port redevelopment stands as a clear example of how strategic planning and public-private collaboration can drive growth, efficiency, and long-term sustainability in the maritime sector.
