Mormugao Port, Location, History, Significance

Mormugao Port is a major port on the western coast of India in the coastal state of Goa. Commissioned in 1885 on the site of a natural harbour, it is one of India’s oldest ports.

Mormugao Port History

Mormugao Port was developed by the Portuguese in the late 19th century primarily to export minerals from Goa and the adjoining areas. After the liberation of Goa in 1961, the port came under the control of the Government of India. In 1964, Mormugao Port was officially declared a Major Port. Since then, the port has continuously contributed to the country’s economic development.

Currently, the Mormugao Port is managed and operated by Mormugao Port Authority.

Mormugao Port Significance 

• Mormugao Port is a riverine port situated at the mouth of the Zuari river estuary, providing natural shelter for vessels.
• Mormugao port is a deep water port because of which large ships can enter without extensive dredging.
  • In 1965, a Perspective Plan was established to develop Mormugao Port for deep-water access and high-capacity loading to compete with Brazil and Australia in the iron ore market. 

Also Read: Indian Ports Act 2025

• Mormugao Port handles major cargoes such as coal, ammonia, phosphoric acid and fertilizer components, steel coils and slabs, limestone, petroleum oil lubricants, molasses, along with a small volume of container traffic.
• In addition to cargo vessels, the port receives cruise ships, oilfield supply vessels, and vessels of the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, National Institute of Oceanography, and Fisheries Survey of India. It also serves as a logistics hub for supplies meant for Indian Antarctic expeditions.
• Mormugao Port is India’s first port to introduce Green Ship Incentives through the Environment Ship Index (ESI) portal, aligning with global efforts to reduce air emissions in shipping. The port’s incentive program, ‘Harit Shrey,’ launched in October 2023, offers discounts on port charges based on ESI scores, rewarding ships with higher environmental performance.

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