High royalty quotes signal strong investor confidence in state’s maritime strategy.

Karnataka Sets New Benchmark in Port-Led Development with Record PPP Bids.

Karnataka has set a new benchmark in port-led development as record royalty bids were received for three cargo berths privatised under the PPP model. Chowgule EPC Pvt Ltd, Anuradha Holdings Pvt Ltd and Hasan Hajee & Co. emerged as the highest bidders for berths at Karwar Port and Old Mangalore Port. Anuradha Holdings quoted ₹212 per tonne for Karwar Port (15 years), Chowgule EPC ₹2,116 per tonne for Old Mangalore Port (Bengre side, 30 years), and Hasan Hajee & Co. ₹140 per tonne for the City side berth. The bids were evaluated solely on royalty per tonne by the Karnataka Maritime Board, ensuring maximum value for the state. The Siddaramaiah-led government, with Mankal Vaidya, hailed the outcome as a major milestone in Karnataka’s PPP-driven port strategy. Transaction advisor Black Brix played a key role in structuring the tenders, which officials said would catalyse fresh investments and strengthen the state’s maritime ecosystem.