State maritime policy soon to strengthen ports

The government has plans to announce the state maritime policy for an overall development ofportsin coastal Karnataka, saidGaurav Gupta, additional chief secretary to energy and development department.

The contributions of Ports are significant in development of states like Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Goa and Kerala. Though Karnataka has a large number of ports, the state could not gain expected development. There is a need for improving connectivity from ports of the coast and other regions.

The central government has released Rs 1,000 crore under the Sagar Mala Project, he said, adding that 26 projects will be implemented under the scheme.