Kerala Govt Proposes Multi-Purpose Berth At Ponnani Port Under Sagarmala Scheme

The Kerala Maritime Board has submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways for the construction of a multi-purpose berth at Ponnani Port, a non-major port under the jurisdiction of the Kerala state government. The proposed project is estimated to cost Rs 20 crore and seeks partial funding assistance under the central government's Sagarmala Scheme.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, shared this information in a written reply to the Lok Sabha, emphasising the central government's commitment to supporting state-led initiatives that align with national maritime policies.

Ponnani, located in the Malappuram district, is a non-major port that plays a vital role in regional connectivity and economic development. Recognising the port's potential for boosting cruise tourism and supporting regional economic growth, the Kerala government has indicated its intent to develop the port further under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

To this end, the state has issued an Expression of Interest (EoI) to attract private service providers to initiate cruise shipping services that would connect various non-major ports in Kerala with ports in neighbouring states.

The proposal aligns with the broader objectives of the Sagarmala Scheme, which aims to modernise India's ports, improve port connectivity, and encourage port-led economic development. The Kerala government’s initiative is part of its strategy to enhance maritime infrastructure, promote tourism, and drive economic growth in the region.

The Ponnani port project, if approved, will mark a significant step in Kerala's maritime development efforts, contributing to the state's economic aspirations and the overall goals of the Sagarmala Scheme.