The main challenge being faced is to effectively utilise the coastal waterways and small ports for cargo-handling. The shifting of cargo from roads to waterways would be economically viable and environmental friendly, said M.Beena, Chairperson, Cochin Port Trust.
Speaking on the potential of Kerala waterways at the recently concluded Maritime India Summit, she pointed out that cashew from Kollam, and movement of cement and tiles from Cochin Port Trust to other parts would save considerable time and resource management. The Ministry of Shipping is actively considering a proposal to create connectivity between Kochi and Lakshadweep for cruise tourism, she said.
Maritime development
VP Salim Kumar, CEO, Kerala Maritime Board, said the government has envisaged an investment of $1.68 billion over the next five years for the development of ports and the maritime sector that comprises the proposed Vizhinjam International Transhipment Container Terminal, Azheekal Seaport Development, Kollam and Beypore Ports Capacity Building and Coastal Shipping Development. The development of Azheekal Multi-Purpose Port. at an estimated investment of $140. 25 million, would accelerate development activities in the Malabar region.
The government has identified several projects which include coastal areas for bulk and container cargo shipping, kattamaran services along the coast, promotion of coastal tourism including water sports, marina development in Alappuzha and Thalassery, and projects such as seafood park in Kodungallur, ship repair unit in Kollam and a floating dry dock.
NSK Umesh, Executive Director, Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC), said that Kerala has more skilled manpower than other States and it could be effectively utilised. The development of ports would open up huge possibilities in the industry. There is a need to set up more food with increased focus on exports. The State is focussing more attention on the on development of smaller ports, he said.
According to LS Radhakrishnan, Managing Director and CEO, Azheekal Port, investments to the tune of ₹3,700 crore would help in the economic growth of North Kerala and he requested for private partnerships to set up warehouses and industrial parks in the region.
Jayakumar, Managing Director and CEO, Vizhinjam International Seaport, said the implementation of the ₹7,700 crore project would pave the way for investments in information technology, marine, ship building, ship repair and agri-textile sectors and enable the formation of a maritime cluster.
Savio Mathew, Head, FICCI Kerala State Council, suggested priority should be given to start coastal shipping service. The warehouses should be developed with private investment focussing on ports.
Source: Business Line
