New Mangalore Port Authority

Genesis and Establishment

New Mangalore Port, often referred to as the Gateway of Karnataka, is the only Major Port in the state. The earlier Old Port (Bunder) at the confluence of the Gurupura and Netravati Rivers could no longer meet the rising demands of maritime trade, leading to the vision for a modern port.

Under the leadership of Late Shri U. Srinivas Mallya, the New Mangalore Port was conceptualised. The Mangalore Harbour Project was set up in 1962, construction began in 1968, and the Port was formally inaugurated on 11 January 1975.

Growth and Cargo Handling Milestones

From handling less than one lakh tonnes of cargo in 1974–75 to 45.71 MMT in FY 2023–24, the Port has grown into a major maritime hub.

Key commodities handled include:

• POL products
• Coffee
• Iron ore pellets
• Cement
• Coal
• Fertiliser
• Edible oil
• Liquid chemicals
• Containerised cargo

The Port provides logistics support to major industries such as MRPL, KIOCL, TOTAL GAS, MCF, HPCL, IOC, and UPCL.

Infrastructure Expansion and Future Vision

Aligned with Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision (MAKV) 2047, NMPA has outlined key development initiatives including:

• Deepening of the channel to 18 metres
• Development of an LNG Terminal
• Additional storage sheds
• Development of an Outer Harbour

With an installed capacity of 105 MMT, NMPA is further expanding through projects such as:

• Additional Deep Draft General Cargo Berth (Berth No. 17)
• Refurbishment of Berth No. 9

A Green, Smart and Tech-Driven Port

NMPA is an ISO 9001, 14001, 45001 & ISPS-certified port and a 100% solar-powered green port, running entirely on renewable energy.

It has won the Greentech Environment Award (Gold) in the Port Sector for seven consecutive years.

The Port has adopted modern and digital systems such as:

• RFID-based entry/exit
• E-documentation
• E-kart ticketing
• Automated weighbridges
• Robotic firefighting
  These advanced systems have enabled best-in-class Turnaround Time (TRT) for break-bulk and container vessels, exceeding World Bank benchmarks.

Awards, Recognition and Cruise Tourism

In 2024–25, NMPA was recognised as the Second-Best Container Handling Port in the <0.5 M TEU category by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways.

It is also a preferred cruise tourism destination, welcoming travellers from across the globe.

Towards a Strong Maritime Future

NMPA continues to strengthen India’s maritime trade through world-class infrastructure, enhanced logistics efficiency, and global connectivity. It is expanding capabilities in container, bulk, and liquid cargo to boost national and regional economic growth.

50 Years of Service to the Nation

As NMPA celebrates 50 years of dedicated service, several commemorative initiatives are planned, including:

• Inauguration of a multi-speciality PPP-mode hospital
• New gates and four-lane roads
• Release of a commemorative stamp, commemorative coin, coffee table book, and exhibition

Philatelic Tribute

India Post proudly releases a special commemorative postage stamp celebrating the remarkable 50-year journey of the New Mangalore Port Authority. This stamp honours NMPA’s vital contribution to trade, logistics, maritime infrastructure, and sustainable innovation—symbolising India’s maritime strength and global connectivity.