7 Floating Jetties Sanctioned under Sagarmala Program in Karnataka

Floating jetties are a game changer for the tourism sector. It is one of the key initiatives of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) under the Sagarmala program, to promote and develop a unique and innovative concept of floating jetties which is an alternate solution to India’s over-crowded small harbours used for fishing and tourism related activities.

In Karnataka, 7 floating jetty projects situated on Gurupura River and Netravati River have been sanctioned by the Ministry recently. These projects are located at Sulthan Bathery, Bandaru ferry, Sandpit Bengre, Northern Sandbar, Old Port, Jeppinamogaru Old Ferry, and Kasaba Bengre, and will enhance tourism, create employment, and generate wealth in a ripple effect across industries throughout the entire geographical region. Rural areas stand to gain the most from the improved regional infrastructure and enhanced job opportunities engendered by tourism-related development projects. These projects have been granted 100% funding of Rs. 26 Crore by the Ministry under the Sagarmala Program.

The floating jetties have multiple applications including marinas, minor harbours, fishing harbours, fish landing centres and waterdromes. These have several advantages over traditional jetties including being environment friendly, having a longer shelf life and being easily re-configurable.