In a significant move, the Karnataka Maritime Board (KMB) has put forth a proposal to establish an international cruise and tourism port near the Someshwar-Ullal area in Mangaluru. Jayaram Raipura, CEO of KMB, revealed that the National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK) Surathkal is currently conducting a pre-feasibility study (PFS) for this ambitious project.

Raipura explained, “In the north of Mangaluru, we have the New Mangaluru Port Authority. In the south, we are considering developing an international cruise and tourism port.” He further mentioned that the proposal received approval from the KMB’s board, chaired by the chief minister, about a month ago. Discussions with the Union government’s Sagarmala program have also been fruitful, with officials expressing support and requesting a formal proposal from KMB.

The pre-feasibility report is underway, being prepared by experts from NITK Surathkal. It is expected to be submitted within a week. Following this, KMB will approach Sagarmala to discuss aspects such as project cost, funding, and finance.

Raipura expressed confidence in the approval of the project by both state and Union governments. Once approved, it will be implemented on a public-private partnership (PPP) basis. A detailed bidding process will be conducted for private parties to develop the port.

He emphasized Mangaluru’s potential as a departure or embarkation point for cruise ships, despite not being a primary destination for cruise tourism. The proposed port could serve as a crucial link to various destinations like Lakshadweep, Mauritius, Gulf Countries, Sri Lanka, and even African Countries. Moreover, it is expected to boost economic activities in Dakshina Kannada and the surrounding regions, leveraging the area’s robust connectivity by air, rail, and road.