VIJAYDURG

• Latitude: 16.5557
•
• Longitude: 73.3374
•
• West Coast India
•
• Port in India

Address: Vijaydurg Maharashtra India

Vijayadurg Marine Port, India: Description and Specifications

Location: Vijayadurg is a serene coastal village situated in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, on the west coast of India. The village and its port are approximately 485 kilometers south of Mumbai and roughly 60 kilometers south of Ratnagiri.

Historical Significance:

• Vijayadurg is renowned for the historic Vijayadurg Fort, which was constructed during the reign of Raja Bhoja II and later fortified extensively by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It was a strategic naval base during the Maratha Empire.

Port Specifications:

1. Port Type:

   • Natural Harbor

2. Operational Status:

   • Primarily a local port catering mainly to fishing and small-scale commercial activities. It has limited infrastructure for large-scale commercial shipping.

3. Coordinates:

   • Latitude: Approximately 16.5589° N
   • Longitude: Approximately 73.3375° E

4. Water Depth:

   • At Anchorage: Generally shallow waters with depths ranging between 5 to 10 meters near the fort areas.
   • At Berth: Limited docking facilities, mostly accommodating small fishing boats and coastal vessels.

5. Tidal Information:

   • The port experiences semi-diurnal tides, with the high and low tide impacting the ease of navigation, especially for larger boats.

6. Navigation Aids:

   • Basic navigational aids such as buoys and minor lights. The fort itself serves as a prominent landmark.

7. Infrastructure:

   • Given its local importance, the port has basic facilities and amenities for the fishing community. There is limited provision for handling cargo, with no sophisticated cargo handling equipment.

8. Connectivity:

   • Road: Vijayadurg is accessible by road from nearby towns and cities. Road infrastructure supports moderate traffic.
   • Rail: The closest major railway station is in Ratnagiri, which connects to major cities in Maharashtra.
   • Air: The nearest airport is in Goa, approximately 180 kilometers to the north.

9. Security and Regulations:

   • Being a small, local port, security is maintained in accordance with local maritime regulations. The area is under the jurisdiction of the Maharashtra Maritime Board.

10. Economy and Activities:

• The primary economic activities around Vijayadurg port include fishing, tourism (due to the historic fort), and small-scale maritime trade.

11. Tourist Attraction:
    • The Vijayadurg Fort is a major draw for tourists, alongside the scenic beauty of the Konkan coast. The region around the port is also known for its flora and fauna, contributing to eco-tourism.

Conclusion

Vijayadurg Marine Port serves a niche role, primarily supporting the local fishing industry and tourism related to its historic fort. While not equipped for major commercial shipping operations, it holds significant cultural and historical importance within the region. Investments in infrastructure could enhance its capacity for broader maritime activities, but as of now, it remains a tranquil and picturesque locale reflecting the maritime heritage of coastal Maharashtra.