Mangaluru: The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) marked a historic milestone on March 26 by welcoming the 40,000th ship to call at the port since its inception, underscoring its growing prominence on India's west coast.
The landmark vessel, MT Apollo Ocean, an LPG tanker, arrived at berth number 13 at around 4 pm. The occasion was commemorated with a formal reception led by NMPA deputy chairperson S Shanthi, who welcomed the ship and felicitated its captain in the presence of senior port officials.
The arrival of the 40,000th vessel is being seen as a significant achievement in the journey of the New Mangalore Port Authority, reflecting decades of steady growth, improved infrastructure, and efficient port operations.
Officials highlighted that this milestone is not just a numerical achievement but a testament to the port's capability to handle increasing maritime traffic while maintaining high standards of service and logistics management.
Over the years, the port has evolved into a key hub for handling a wide range of cargo, including petroleum products, fertilisers, coal, and containerised goods, catering to both domestic and international markets.
The MT Apollo Ocean is scheduled to discharge approximately 16,000 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) during its stay at the port. This shipment is expected to contribute significantly to meeting the industrial and domestic energy demands in the region.
According to an official release, the arrival of such large LPG consignments highlights the strategic importance of the port in ensuring a steady supply of energy resources to Karnataka and neighbouring states.
The port's ability to efficiently handle bulk cargo such as LPG further strengthens its role in supporting the country's energy infrastructure.
The milestone of handling 40,000 ships reinforces the status of the New Mangalore Port Authority as a premier maritime gateway on India's west coast.
With continuous investments in modernisation, digitalisation, and capacity expansion, the port has been able to attract a growing number of vessels and cargo volumes over the years. Its strategic location and connectivity to hinterland regions have also contributed to its success.
Port authorities expressed confidence that such achievements will pave the way for further growth, enhancing trade opportunities and boosting the regional economy.
The arrival of the 40,000th vessel, MT Apollo Ocean, marks a proud moment for the New Mangalore Port Authority. As the port continues to expand its capabilities and strengthen its operations, it is poised to play an even more crucial role in India's maritime trade and energy supply chain in the years ahead.