The Karnataka government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Lakshadweep administration for the construction of a dedicated jetty for Lakshadweep at Old Mangalore Port.

Speaking at the function to sign the MoU, Rajesh Prasad, Administrator of Lakshadweep, said Karnataka would construct the dedicated jetty on an area of 8,000 sq metre at Old Mangalore Port.

₹60-crore project The project, estimated to cost around ₹60 crore, will be funded by the Lakshadweep administration. After getting detailed project report and environmental impact assessment report from the Karnataka government, the Lakshadweep Administration will begin work on the project.

R Mohan, Director of the Department of Ports, Karnataka, said the project includes the construction of a 300-metre-long wharf for vessels and cargo, passenger lounge, godown building, and dredging among other works.

Mohammed Faizal, Member of Parliament from Lakshadweep, said the proposed jetty would improve the trade ties between Mangaluru and Lakshadweep.

Karanjit V, Director of Ports, Lakshadweep Administration, said the islands of Amani, Kadamat, Kiltan, Chetlat and Bitra in Lakshadweep will greatly benefit from the proposed dedicated jetty at Old Mangalore Port.

JR Lobo, Member of Legislative Assembly from Mangaluru South, suggested the Karnataka government constitute a supervisory committee for the speedy implementation of the project. He said the draught should be more than seven metres at the Old Mangalore Port to bring bigger vessels.

Baburao Chinchanasur, Karnataka Port Minister, and Nalin Kumar Kateel, MP of Dakshina Kannada, were present on the occasion.

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