Mangalore: The state government has not yet approved the dredging of sand at the estuary at old Port of Mangalore (OMP) which needs to be deepened. This delay has resulted in a probable discontinuance of “to and fro” shipping services between Mangalore Bunder (old port) and the Lakshadweep (Islands in Arabian Sea, represented by an MP).

These islanders had a preference over Kochi, towards Mangalore. But navigation has become more and more difficult with accumulation of sand, causing boat accidents around the Estuary, where Netravathi and Gurpur rivers meet the Arabian Sea.

On November 1, Rajyotsava Day, the first ship in its navigation service left old Mangalore port, with 90 passengers on deck to begin a new season, but port authorities are not sure of a second such trip by ship.

Six islands are connected to Mangalore by the shipping service. A lot of mud and sand at the old port region acts as a drawback to the running of such an important marine service.

Ships require a depth of about 14 feet for safe navigation. But waiting for high time at the estuary, was a waste of time, said the port officials in weariness. Lakshadweep (or Laccadives) is 365km. away from Mangalore and the population (largely of Muslims) travels frequently to Mangalore for goods available at cheaper rates, for health care, education and business.

Mangalorean go to spend vacation at Lakshadweep, as the sea route provides great scenic relief to passengers. Lakshadweep is dependent on tourism, as it has no industries.

The people of those islands will suffer if ship services are suspended. Revenues of Old Mangalore Port also could suffer, once ships stop moving.

A proposal on dredging at the estuary has been sent to the government, showing that the project would sent to the government, showing that the project would  cost Rs.4.60 crores, said Madhusudan, OM Port conservator. The OMP is a natural during monsoon, he added.

Madhusudan said that cruise ships could move into the estuary more easily than cargo