Neendakara Port
Neendakara port is situated in the estuary of Ashtamudi lake and was one of the busiest ports in kerala till last decade which handled raw cashew and Ilmenite. This port was a lighterage port. When Portuguese traders settled in Kollam (Quilon) in the early 16th century, their ships passed through the Neenadakara. This port could have been developed in to a well equipped all weather port well inside the Ashtamudi lake but for the bridge that come across it forestalled the development of Neendakara port into modern minor port and sealed it future. The potential of developing this port in to a coastal cargo hub linking inland water trade with small vessels that can navigate through the bridge need to be studied since the Kollam port does not have such connectivity.
Neendakara Port is an important fishing and maritime hub located in the Kollam district of Kerala, India. It is well-known for its large-scale fishing activities and its historical significance as a coastal trade center.
Infrastructure
60 M long Wharf and a Transit Shed available (19860 Sq Ft.
Highlights Of Neendakara Port
1.Major Fishing Harbor
- Neendakara is one of the largest fishing harbors in Kerala and a vital center for the fishing industry.
- It supports a thriving economy by providing employment to thousands involved in fishing, processing, and related industries.
- Twin Port System
- Neendakara, along with the nearby Sakthikulangara, forms the twin ports of Kollam, contributing to the region’s economy.
- Both ports play a significant role in the export of marine products.
- Connection to the Indo-Norwegian Project
- In 1953, Neendakara became the site for the Indo-Norwegian Fisheries Project, the first Indo-Norwegian collaboration in India.
- The project aimed to modernize Kerala’s fisheries sector, introducing advanced fishing techniques, modern boats, and processing facilities.
- Ashtamudi Lake and Estuary
- Neendakara lies near the Ashtamudi Lake, where the lake meets the Arabian Sea.
- This estuarine ecosystem is rich in biodiversity and supports both marine and inland fishing.
- Fishing Auctions and Markets
- The harbor is a bustling site for daily fish auctions, attracting traders and buyers from across the state and beyond.
- Popular fish varieties include tuna, mackerel, sardines, and prawns.
- Tourism Appeal
- Visitors are drawn to the picturesque harbor, where they can observe fishing boats, bustling activities, and scenic views of the Arabian Sea.
- The area is also a starting point for boat rides to explore Ashtamudi Lake.
- Development
- The port is equipped with modern facilities for berthing, unloading, and storing fish.
- Recent government efforts aim to enhance infrastructure to support both local and international trade.