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On 23 April, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah gave approval to the ambitious Mangaluru Water Metro project. This new project will connect Bajal and Maravoor by water across the Netravati and Gurupura rivers. The goal is to improve inland water transport in the state. After Kochi, Karnataka will become the second state in the country to have such a large water transport system. The Karnataka Maritime Board (KMB) has been asked to prepare a detailed project report for the water metro.
Focus on port development and water transport
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the maritime and transport departments. They discussed the water metro and also plans to improve ports in Karnataka. The Chief Minister asked officials to check the land lease periods for port areas and rehabilitation zones. He told them to submit a report soon. He also gave orders to remove illegal structures that are blocking port development work.
Water transport training centre in Mangaluru
To strengthen water transport further, Siddaramaiah approved the setting up of the Karnataka Water Transport Training Centre in Mangaluru. This centre will be developed under the Central Government's Sagarmala project. It will help train people to work in the water transport sector. This step shows that Karnataka wants to create a skilled workforce for its growing maritime needs.
Drone survey for island development
Siddaramaiah gave more directions during the meeting. He told the Deputy Commissioner of Uttara Kannada to use drone technology to survey the islands selected for development. A full report on the drone survey must be submitted within three months. This shows the government's urgency in moving forward with the island development project.
New transport policy launched
The Chief Minister also launched the Karnataka Inland Transport Policy, 2024. He was joined by Mankal Vaidya, the Minister for Fisheries and Ports. This new policy will guide the future of inland transport in the state and shows the government's serious approach toward improving transport infrastructure.
Study of port operations in other states
To improve port services in Karnataka, Siddaramaiah has asked for a detailed study of port operations in other states like Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat. Learning from these states will help Karnataka grow its port system faster and more effectively.
With several new steps and plans, Karnataka is getting ready to become a leader in water transport and port development. From the Mangaluru Water Metro to a training centre and new policies, the state is working hard to improve connectivity, create jobs, and support economic growth through better transport systems.
