KMB signs ₹4,500-crore agreements to boost coastal infrastructure

By Admin

07 Nov, 2025

In a significant move to strengthen Karnataka’s maritime and logistics ecosystem, the Karnataka Maritime Board (KMB) has signed multiple agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) worth ₹4,500 crore, focusing on the enhancement of port connectivity, infrastructure, and allied facilities across the state. These strategic partnerships, formalized during the India Maritime Week 2025, are expected to accelerate investments in coastal development and modernize Karnataka’s maritime capabilities.

According to KMB, the initiatives will focus on improving last-mile connectivity, building critical port infrastructure, and creating a skilled workforce to support the rapidly evolving maritime economy. This multi-pronged approach aims to establish Karnataka as a leading maritime hub along India’s western coastline.

The highlight of these agreements was the concession agreement with JSW Infrastructure Ltd for the development of an all-weather, deep-water greenfield port at Keni in the Uttara Kannada district. Valued at ₹4,118 crore, the project will be developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model and is envisioned to become a major maritime gateway on the state’s west coast, significantly improving trade and logistics efficiency.

In another milestone for regional connectivity, KMB inked an MoU with Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd (KRCL) for the Amadalli railway siding project in Uttara Kannada. With an investment of ₹45.88 crore, this initiative will enhance cargo evacuation capabilities and improve port-to-hinterland connectivity, ensuring smoother multimodal logistics movement across the region.

Furthermore, to support the fisheries and marine export sector, KMB signed an agreement with the Karnataka Department of Fisheries for projects worth ₹12 crore in Ballari district. These initiatives include the construction of cold storage units, seafood processing facilities, and a quality testing laboratory, aimed at strengthening the fisheries supply chain and increasing export value.

KMB officials emphasized that these collaborations underscore Karnataka’s long-term vision to develop a robust and integrated maritime ecosystem that supports trade, logistics, and industrial expansion while generating significant employment opportunities in coastal regions.

With these agreements, Karnataka takes a major step forward in transforming its coastal infrastructure and positioning itself as a pivotal contributor to India’s Blue Economy, driving sustainable maritime growth for years to come.