New Mangalore Port Authority to Develop Pavinakurve Port as Strategic Maritime Hub in Karnataka

The New Mangalore Port Authority has proposed the development of a new port at Pavinakurve in Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, marking a significant step in strengthening India’s western coast maritime infrastructure. The proposed port will be located near Pavinakurve village in Honnavar taluka, strategically positioned on the banks of the Sharavathi and Badagani rivers. This location is expected to provide natural depth advantages and strong connectivity potential for regional trade.

According to details shared in Parliament, the port is planned with an initial cargo handling capacity of around 14 million tonnes. Over the long term, capacity is expected to scale up substantially, reaching approximately 37.4 million tonnes by the year 2050. One of the key features of the proposed facility is its ability to accommodate Capesize vessels, the largest class of dry bulk ships, which would enable the port to handle large volumes of bulk cargo efficiently and competitively.

The project represents a shift in approach for port development in the region. Earlier attempts by the Karnataka Maritime Board to attract private investment for the Pavinakurve port did not materialise, despite global tenders being floated and an estimated private investment requirement of about Rs 3,047.86 crore. The absence of bidders had stalled progress for several years.

The renewed push comes with the New Mangalore Port Authority expressing interest in developing Pavinakurve as a satellite port under the direct initiative of the Central Port Authority. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed this development in a written response to the Lok Sabha, indicating stronger central involvement and oversight in taking the project forward.

Once developed, the Pavinakurve port is expected to play a vital role in easing cargo congestion at existing ports, supporting regional industries, and improving export and import efficiency along Karnataka’s coastline. The project is also likely to generate employment, boost allied logistics and infrastructure development, and enhance the state’s position in India’s maritime and coastal economy. As planning progresses, the port is expected to emerge as a key long-term asset in India’s port-led development strategy.