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Karnataka Maritime Board plans coastal ferry link between Mangaluru and Maravanthe

#Infrastructure News#Infrastructure#India#Karnataka
Last Updated : 18th Jan, 2026
Synopsis

The Karnataka Maritime Board (KMB) has proposed a coastal passenger ferry service connecting Mangaluru to Maravanthe in Udupi district, covering around 110 km along the Arabian Sea coast. The plan includes jetties at Old Mangaluru Port, Hejmadi, Malpe, Kota, and Maravanthe, aiming to reduce congestion on NH66 and support regional tourism. With an estimated investment of INR 37.8 crore and a 20 year concession period, the initiative is expected to provide reliable transport for commuters and tourists while complementing Mangaluru's upcoming water metro project and broader coastal development plans.

The Karnataka Maritime Board has put forward a plan for a coastal ferry service linking Mangaluru and Maravanthe, spanning roughly 110 km along the state's western coastline. The proposed route will include stops at five locations: Old Mangaluru Port, Hejmadi, Malpe, Kota, and Maravanthe. KMB officials have highlighted that the ferry will provide a convenient alternative to the heavily used NH66 highway, helping reduce road congestion while offering passengers scenic coastal travel. The project was presented at a coastal tourism conclave organized by the state tourism department, emphasizing both transport efficiency and tourism growth.


Officials explained that the ferry service is designed to improve regional connectivity, support tourism, and provide a sustainable transport option for both locals and visitors. The project's total estimated cost is INR 37.8 crore, and it will operate under a 20 year concession agreement. The initiative is expected to strengthen local economic activity by enhancing access to coastal towns and tourist spots while offering commuters a reliable alternative to road travel.

In addition to the ferry project, the KMB outlined plans for a water metro in Mangaluru, with an investment of INR 180 crore. The water metro will connect multiple points along the Gurupur and Nethravathi rivers with city transport networks, including buses and intermediate public transport, creating a multimodal urban mobility system. Officials believe this integration will make commuting more convenient, reduce road traffic, and encourage the use of waterways within city limits.

The ferry project is part of a wider focus on coastal development in Karnataka. Authorities have recently emphasized creating a dedicated tourism policy for the coastal region, improving beach facilities and certifications, and upgrading transport infrastructure. Together, these measures aim to promote sustainable tourism, improve accessibility, and support local economies along the coast.

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