Need central maritime university in M’luru: MP Chowta

Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta emphasised the importance of establishing a central maritime university in Mangaluru.
During a workshop focused on maritime adversities, organised by New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) on Friday, he revealed that he held discussions with consultants regarding this initiative. He mentioned that a project report was completed and will be presented to the ministry of shipping in the near future.
"The proposed maritime university should honour Rani Abbakka by bearing her name, particularly as her 500th birth anniversary celebrations are scheduled this year. Mangaluru stands as the most suitable location for establishing this maritime university. Mangaluru possesses the capabilities to emerge as Karnataka's primary trade hub. Additional programmes should be implemented to gain deeper insights into maritime challenges and prospects," the MP said.
Stating that the shipbuilding and ship repair industry generate employment opportunities, the MP said that Dakshina Kannada is a region of an ocean of possibilities, and that it can be realised with port-led development. Better connectivity between Mangaluru and Bengaluru, and railway connectivity between Ankola and Hubballi will ensure the overall development of Karnataka, he said.
NMPA chairman Venkata Ramana Akkaraju advised stakeholders to exercise vigilance regarding "rogue vessels" requesting assistance while navigating in Indian waters or international territory. He emphasised the importance of thorough verification of vessels' international insurance coverage and operational condition when they signal distress calls. Throughout the year, numerous vessels operate without proper fitness certificate and face difficulties during adverse weather. These unauthorised vessels create significant problems upon entering Indian ports, causing difficulties for both port authorities and the Indian govt. Their sinking result in substantial financial losses to ports, and environmental damage to marine ecosystems.
He also warned about people taking advantage of the loopholes in Indian laws and getting fitness certificates from other countries. The New Mangalore Port's master plan aims to position NMPA as a 100+ MMT port and thereby boost Karnataka's economic growth. The profit of the NMPA, which fetched Rs 101 crore after tax five years ago, will be around Rs 455 crore after tax this year, he added.