New Mangalore Port (NMP), a critical maritime gateway for Karnataka, has set a new benchmark by handling 46.01 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo in the financial year 2024-25, establishing an all-time record in its operational history.
This milestone holds special significance as it coincides with the Port’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, reflecting its evolution as a key driver of regional and national economic growth. The record-breaking performance represents a substantial increase from the previous fiscal year, where the port handled 45.7 MMT of cargo. This growth trajectory highlights the Port’s resilience and strategic adaptability, even in the face of global economic challenges and operational hurdles. According to official sources, the Port has also reported a provisional Profit Before Tax (PBT) of ₹600 crore for FY 2024-25, marking a 5.2% year-on-year increase. The healthy operating ratio of 34.87% underscores the Port’s robust financial health and operational efficiency, showcasing its capability to manage large volumes of cargo while maintaining fiscal prudence. This achievement is particularly noteworthy considering the complex operational environment during the year. The Port navigated several challenges, including delays in post-monsoon dredging due to the prioritisation of aircraft carrier docking at Cochin Shipyard, global shipping disruptions from the Red Sea crisis, reduced containerised cashew imports following crop failures in West Africa, and a subdued steel demand impacting iron ore exports.
Despite these obstacles, the Port’s management adopted proactive measures to sustain growth. These included diversifying cargo focus, offering targeted commercial and operational incentives, and engaging in strategic trade partnerships to attract additional volumes. The operationalisation of projects inaugurated in FY 2022-23 further contributed to the Port’s impressive throughput. In terms of operational upgrades, the Port implemented several modernisation initiatives such as fixed window berthing, integrated yard management systems, automated weighbridges, and dynamic storage solutions. These enhancements not only improved efficiency but also positioned the Port as a model for sustainable maritime operations. Looking ahead, NMP is poised to expand further with key infrastructure projects in the pipeline. These include the construction of a new deep-draft general cargo berth, Phase II mechanisation of the container terminal, and the refurbishment of POL Berth No. 9. These initiatives are aligned with the Port’s Vision 2047 Master Plan, which aims to position NMP as a 100+ MMT port and contribute significantly to Karnataka’s economic growth.
The Vision 2047 Master Plan focuses on transforming NMP into a world-class port that supports sustainable development goals. It encompasses strategies for zero net carbon emissions, eco-friendly operations, and inclusive growth, fostering a gender-neutral and equitable maritime ecosystem. The achievement of this milestone reflects not just operational excellence but also the collective efforts of port users, stakeholders, and trade partners who have supported NMP’s growth trajectory.
This success story reinforces the critical role of ports in India’s economic landscape, contributing to the country’s broader objectives of enhancing logistics efficiency, boosting exports, and driving sustainable economic development.