KCCI seeks development of waterway in and around city

It will usher in a new era of economic development in the region by boosting various sectors

The Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has urged the government to develop a full-fledged waterway between Bantwal and Malavoor through the Netravathi and the Gurupura (Phalguni) for the overall development of Mangaluru. In a letter to the Ports and Inland Water Transport Department, chamber president Isaac Vas said that the number of Dhows (small vessels) and yachts visiting the Mangaluru Old Port has considerably reduced. This was because no feeder cargo was generated from the industrial hinterland due to the lack of efficient waterways both on the Netravathi and the Phalguni. These waterways should be developed and connected to different ports, including Goa, Lakshadweep, Mumbai, Kochi and Karwar to improve economic activities. Mr. Vas said that a waterway has to start from Thumbe in the Netravathi, come down to Old Port and go up to Malavoor vented dam connecting the international airport here. Thus, it will form a critical link and be a catalyst for economic development along the riverbanks. Besides coastal trade with Lakshadweep Islands and fishing, the Netravathi has a huge potential for various economic activities, including tourism, agri-products and fish industries, along with the hospitality industry, he said.