The government has given the green light to the New Mangalore Port Authority’s proposal to revamp Berth No. 9 for handling liquid bulk cargo through a Public-Private Partnership model. This move, approved on March 25, 2026, aims to enhance India’s port infrastructure and logistics.
The redevelopment project, estimated at Rs 438.29 crore, will be carried out by a private concessionaire chosen via a competitive bidding process. It is set to have a capacity of 10.90 MTPA, with a commitment from the concessionaire to handle a Minimum Guaranteed Cargo of 7.63 MTPA by the 5th year.
The initiative involves upgrading Berth No. 9 to manage liquid bulk cargo like crude oil, petroleum products, and LPG. The berth’s draft will be increased from 10.5 meters to 14 meters, with future-ready provisions for up to 19.8 meters to accommodate larger vessels, including Very Large Gas Carriers.
Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, praised the project as a testament to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forward-thinking leadership. By modernizing infrastructure, increasing cargo capacity, and enabling the handling of larger vessels, the initiative aims to bolster India’s maritime standing and meet future trade demands.
The redevelopment will replace aging structures with durable marine infrastructure designed for a 50-year lifespan, ensuring sustainability. It will enhance the port’s capability to meet the rising regional demand for liquid bulk cargo, particularly energy resources, and improve overall competitiveness by accommodating larger vessels and reducing logistics costs.
