Mangaluru: Sushil Kumar Singh, chairman of New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) and Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Friday inaugurated two projects at New Mangalore Port to improve cargo handling and cruise passenger facilities.A covered storage shed inside the wharf was built at a cost of ₹8.6 crore between June 2 and Oct 28. Measuring 120 metres x 40 metres, it provides additional storage for export-import (EXIM) cargo such as fertilisers, sugar, maize, food grains and cattle feed.The facility will protect cargo, improve handling efficiency and meet growing trade needs. It is also expected to increase existing cargo volumes and attract new cargo.The NMPA International Cruise Lounge, renovated at a cost of ₹83.2 lakh, was also inaugurated. Work ran from July 20 to Oct 29.The Cruise Lounge, originally developed around 18 years ago, has been comprehensively renovated to provide a modern and comfortable environment for international cruise passengers and foreign tourists visiting the Port. The renovation covers 2,582sqm, plus a 432sqm extension. The works include new vitrified tile flooring, aluminium composite panel (ACP) cladding and a new false ceiling, significantly improving the aesthetics, functionality and passenger amenities of the facility.
