The exporters' convention in Mangalore, which was organised by the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), has highlighted the need for improving connectivity to the New Mangalore Port.
Speaking at the convention, Mr M. Rafeeque Ahmed, President of FIEO, said that a majority of the cargo originated in Karnataka is being shipped through the Chennai Port. However, Chennai is congested and creating huge loss to export-import trade.
In such a situation, better connectivity to the New Mangalore Port Trust (NMPT), through railways and roads, will go a long way in the development of exports from the State. It will also help increase container traffic of the NMPT, he said.
There is an urgent need for giving more focus on infrastructure development such as roads, railway network, port connectivity and minor port development in the state to boost growth of exports, he said. Mr Ahmed opined that the relative development of infrastructure for Karnataka is the lowest amongst the southern states.
He urged the need for setting up an air cargo complex in Mangalore. An air cargo complex with cold storage facility will help boost the export of agro products from the State.
Mr P. Tamilvanan, Chairman of NMPT, who chaired a technical session on infrastructure development, said that the port is conducting trade meets in various parts in the hinterland to attract cargo to the New Mangalore Port.