Karnataka's Mangaluru coastal projects face funding denial and cruise tourism study

The Indian central government has refused to provide Sagarmala programme assistance for the proposed Mangaluru–Maravanthe coastal ferry, saying the project does not meet the scheme’s eligibility criteria. The ferry was intended to link Mangaluru with Maravanthe, ease road congestion, boost tourism and improve coastal connectivity. Karnataka officials were advised to explore alternative financing such as state funds, public‑private partnerships or other central schemes.

Separately, Karnataka’s tourism department has begun a feasibility assessment for an international‑standard cruise terminal in Mangaluru. A delegation led by Tourism Minister K. J. George met senior executives of Waterways Leisure Tourism Limited, including CEO Jürgen Bailom, to discuss market demand, required infrastructure upgrades and commercial viability. The operator will send a technical team for an on‑site inspection and has agreed in principle to evaluate the city’s potential as a cruise tourism hub.