Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Jan 13: In a major boost to coastal connectivity and urban mobility, the Karnataka Maritime Board (KMB) has proposed a dedicated coastal passenger ferry service linking Mangaluru with Maravanthe in Udupi district.

The proposed ferry corridor, covering about 110 km from Mangaluru to Maravanthe in Kundapur taluk, is envisioned as an alternative transport option to the busy and often congested NH-66. According to reports, the ferry service will have five intermediate stops at Old Mangaluru Port, Hejmady, Malpe, Kota and Maravanthe.

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The project is estimated to cost Rs 37.8 crore and will be implemented under a public–private partnership (PPP) model, with a 20-year concession period for the selected operator. Purpose-built jetties are planned at all five locations, including Maravanthe, one of Karnataka’s most popular beach destinations.

Details of the proposed ferry service, along with other maritime tourism initiatives, were presented by KMB officials at the Coastal Karnataka Tourism Conclave organised by the Karnataka tourism department.

In addition, the KMB also unveiled plans for a Water Metro Project in and around Mangaluru city, with an estimated investment of Rs 180 crore. The proposed water metro network will cover major waterways within the Mangaluru City Corporation limits, connecting Malavoor Bridge near Mangaluru International Airport with Jeppinamogaru Bridge, via the Gurupur and Netravati rivers and the Old Mangaluru Port.

The Water Metro project aims to develop a seamless, multimodal urban transport system by integrating ferry services with city buses and other modes of public transport.

KMB officials noted that the presence of the Gurpur and Netravati rivers gives Mangaluru strong potential for a PPP-based water metro, offering a cost-effective, sustainable and efficient solution for urban transportation while easing pressure on road networks.