OLD MANGALORE

• Latitude: 12.8625
• Longitude: 74.8315
• West Coast India
• Port in India

Location: Mangalore Karnataka India

Web-site: https://www.karnataka.gov.in/marine/Pages/Old-Port-Mangalore.aspx

Old Mangalore Port, often referred to simply as Mangalore Port or Bunder Port, is one of the oldest and historically significant ports in India. It is located in the state of Karnataka, in the southwestern part of the country along the Arabian Sea. This port primarily serves the city of Mangalore, a major commercial hub known for its diverse culture and economic activities.

Specifications and Features:

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 12.8740° N latitude and 74.8428° E longitude.
• Region: Situated in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka.

Infrastructure:

• Harbor Type: Natural port.
• Berths: Limited berthing facilities suitable for small and medium-sized vessels.
• Depth: The port's draft is relatively shallow, accommodating vessels with limited draft requirements.
• Cargo Handling Facilities: Basic facilities for handling traditional cargoes such as fisheries, agricultural products, and minor industrial goods.

Navigational Aids:

• Lighthouses and Buoys: Equipped with basic navigational aids including lighthouses and marker buoys to assist in safe navigation into and out of the port.

Connectivity:

• Road: Well-connected by road networks, facilitating the transportation of goods to and from the hinterland.
• Rail: Proximity to Mangalore's railway stations, providing additional connectivity for cargo transport.

Types of Cargo:

• Traditional Cargo: Fisheries, agricultural produce, and local industrial products.
• Ancillary Services: Basic services like bunkering, pilotage, and minor repair facilities.

Administrative and Management:

• Authority: Managed by local port authorities under the guidance of the state government of Karnataka.
• Port Operations: Operates under the regulations and guidelines set forth by national maritime laws and the Directorate General of Shipping, India.

Economic Significance:

• Historically significant as a gateway for regional trade.
• Supports local fisheries and agricultural sectors.

Development Plans:

Given its limitations in handling larger vessels and modern containerized cargo, various development and modernization plans are often considered to enhance its capabilities. Proposals for dredging operations to increase depth, improving cargo handling facilities, and upgrading infrastructure are typically on the agenda for future expansions.

Key Points for Visitors and Stakeholders:

• The port area might reflect the charm of a historic maritime center with traditional activities still prominent.
• Stakeholders and prospective investors might look into regional development plans and government incentives for investing in port upgrades or related logistics infrastructure.

Conclusion:

Old Mangalore Port is emblematic of the region’s rich maritime heritage. While it operates on a smaller scale in comparison to modern ports, it remains a crucial element of the local economy, particularly for traditional sectors like fisheries and agriculture. Future enhancements could potentially expand its scope and efficiency, making it a more integral part of Karnataka's maritime network.