NMPA aims for higher FY 24-25 cargo figures despite Charmadi Ghat hurdles

The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) is expected to achieve improved cargo handling figures for the fiscal year 2024-25, despite challenges posed by the Charmadi Ghat section. The Charmadi Ghat, a crucial route for transportation, has faced disruptions, but NMPA’s strategic measures and operational efficiency seem to be mitigating these issues effectively.

According to Dr. A.V. Ramana, NMPA Chairperson, “Despite losing approximately 5 MMTP due to a 66-day delay in dredging and setbacks in the Sampaji/Charmadi Ghat roadwork, NMPA is set to surpass the cargo handling figures of FY 2023-24. This remarkable achievement highlights the indomitable spirit of Team NMPA, especially during the Golden Jubilee year of 2025. I am confident that our PAT figures will be highly impressive. I would like to take this moment to commend the dedicated and intelligent efforts of the Traffic and Marine departments, who have transformed a 40 MMTPA scenario into nearly 46 MMTPA.”

Charmadi Ghat section of National Highway-73, a vital passage through Karnataka’s Western Ghats, is set to undergo a major expansion, widening the route to two lanes with a central allocation of Rs 343.74 crore. The 11-kilometre stretch would be expanded, improving connectivity between Mangaluru, Mudigere, and Tumakuru.

With the tender process finalized, construction is set to commence shortly, aiming to facilitate smoother travel for passengers from Karnataka’s coastal districts and boost regional goods transportation—an initiative poised to benefit local commerce significantly. Officials have stated that the project will strengthen connectivity between coastal regions and upland areas such as Chikkamagaluru and Hassan, as well as improve travel routes for those heading toward Bengaluru. The existing narrow roads in Charmadi Ghat have long been a bottleneck, hindering seamless traffic flow.

However, National Highway authorities have indicated that it remains uncertain whether the upgraded highway will directly aid container shipments, such as coffee and spices, moving through New Mangaluru Port.

Works on development of 37 national highways in Karnataka have been delayed for reasons ranging from land acquisition issues to forest clearances, Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi told the Legislative Council recently. The Minister acknowledged that the work on highways is going at a slow pace, and both the State and Centre are to be blamed for this.