Manjeswaram Port
Manjeswaram port is a seaside minor port located at the mouths of Manjeswaram, Shiriya & Mogral Rivers with the Arabian Sea in Kasaragod District of Kerala. It is the northernmost port of Kerala. Manjeswaram Port got notified in 1998 one of the newest ports in the coast of north Malabar region of Kerala.Not yet started its shipping operation. May be developed as a feeding port of Kasaragod & Azhikkal Port. May operates as a Coastal Shipping Terminals. At present, there is a small fishing harbor (namely Hosabettu/ Manjeswaram Fishing harbour) inside the Manjeswaram Port. Manjeswaram Town can serve as a port town providing supporting urban infrastructure. There exists potential for connecting Thalapady,Manjeswaram,Shiriya & Mogral Rivers in Kasargod District as part of development of inland state waterways.
Infrastructure
Manjeswaram Port is situated in Mangalpady,Hosebettu,Bangara Manjeswar Kunjathur,Uppala,Shiriya Villages in Kasaragod District. Manjeswaram Port has no Wharf facility
Fire & Rescue ,Police etc available at Kasaragod , Manjeswaram
Conservation of Port land and assets at Manjeswaram Port.
Manual Dredging Activities to maintain depth in the channels and river mouths of Manjeswaram,Shiriya & Mogral Rivers
Manually Dredged Material (sand) distribution kadavus : 3 No.s
1. Manjeswaram Kadavu under Manjeswaram Gramapanchayath
2. Shiriya-Areekady Kadavu under Kumbala Gramapanchayath
3. Mogral Puthur Kadavu under Mogral Puthur Gramapanchayath .
Highlights Of Manjeswaram Port
Economic Importance:
- The port is envisioned as a point for facilitating regional trade, particularly for commodities like spices, timber, and marine products.
- Plays a role in supporting the local fishing industry, which is a primary livelihood in the area.
Tourism Potential:
- Surrounded by scenic beaches and cultural landmarks, the port area attracts tourists.
- Nearby attractions include Manjeshwar Beach, the Ananthapura Lake Temple, and Malik Dinar Mosque.
- Its serene backwaters and the unique coastal ecosystem make it a promising spot for eco-tourism.
Development Scope:
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- Currently categorized as a minor port, but with scope for future upgrades.
- The Kerala government’s focus on enhancing its port infrastructure, including coastal shipping and inland waterways, could benefit Manjeswaram Port.
Strategic Significance:
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- Being close to Karnataka, it has the potential to serve as a gateway for trade between Kerala and neighboring states.
- Could complement major ports in the region by handling small-scale cargo and fishing-related activities.
While Manjeswaram Port is not as developed as major ports like Kochi or Vizhinjam, its location and cultural backdrop provide opportunities for growth in both trade and tourism. With the right investments, it can play a crucial role in Kerala’s port network.