New Mangaluru Port welcomes Seven Seas Voyager, Second Cruise Ship of the season
Mangaluru (Karnataka), Dec 27: The New Mangaluru Port Authority (NMPA) on Friday, welcomed the Bahamian luxury cruise ship Seven Seas Voyager, marking another milestone in its journey as a premier global cruise tourism destination.
Operated by the Norwegian Cruise Line, Seven Seas Voyager docked at the port at 6:30 AM and departed at 5:30 PM, officials said.
According to a statement by NMPA, the ship carried 650 passengers and 450 crew members. Measuring 206.5 meters in length and boasting a gross registered tonnage (GRT) of 42,363. The vessel is sailing the Arabian Sea on an itinerary that includes stops at Fujairah, Mumbai, Goa, New Mangaluru, and Cochin before reaching Colombo.
Passengers were accorded a traditional Indian welcome, with local cultural troupes performing classical and folk dances to set the tone for an immersive experience of Karnataka's rich heritage.
The port's reception area was adorned with traditional decorations, creating a vibrant atmosphere reflective of the region's hospitality.
"To enhance their visit, guided tours were arranged to some of Karnataka's most iconic attractions. The Gomateshwara Temple in Karkala, featuring a 42-foot monolithic statue of Bahubali, an important Jain heritage landmark," it stated.
Visitors also explored the Thousand Pillar Temple in Moodbidri, an architectural marvel showcasing intricate carvings and reflecting the cultural zenith of the region's past.
Another highlight was a visit to Soans Farm, known for its sustainable practices and exotic fruit cultivation, the Kalbhavi Cashew Factory and the Gokarnanatheshwara Temple, travellers also had the opportunity to explore bustling local markets, taking home handcrafted souvenirs and indulging in the region's culinary delights.
"The arrival of the Seven Seas Voyager follows the visit of MS Silver Whisper, which marked the beginning of this year's cruise season at NMPA. With consistent arrivals of luxury cruise liners, the port has emerged as a vital gateway for international tourists exploring coastal Karnataka," it stated.
NMPA proudly welcomes the luxurious Seven Seas Voyager from the Bahamas! With 650 passengers & 450 crew onboard, the ship arrived on 27th Dec at 6:30 AM & departs at 5:30 PM. Another milestone in promoting cruise tourism & hosting world-class voyages! #CruiseTourism pic.twitter.com/dZg0Q2Kd6X
— New Mangalore Port Authority (@NewMngPort) December 27, 2024
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Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit accuses AAP of snooping on him, Delhi LG orders probe
New Delhi (PTI): Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena has ordered inquiries into Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit's allegations of snooping and large sums of cash being brought into the city from Punjab ahead of the next year's Assembly election.
In a letter dated December 25, Dikshit flagged the alleged presence of intelligence personnel from the "Punjab Government" outside his residence in Delhi.
He alleged that "official vehicles" associated with these personnel had often been seen outside his home, suggesting surveillance and intimidation.
There was no immediate response available from the Aam Aadmi Party, which governs both Delhi and Punjab.
Saxena has sought a report on the allegations within three days.
In addition, Dikshit also accused the Punjab government of sending "large sums of cash" (in crores) to Delhi to influence voters ahead of the election.
He said "private vehicles," often escorted by Punjab Police, were coming through Haryana and Rajasthan to Delhi.
The LG office has ordered the Delhi police commissioner to take "immediate steps" to check vehicles at the city's borders, particularly those coming from Punjab.
The DGPs of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan have been advised to be on high alert and monitor any unusual movements that may indicate illegal transfers of cash or election-related malpractice.
The Chief Secretary of Delhi has been directed to inform the chief electoral officer to step up vigilance as the election date closes in.
The AAP and Congress are partners in the INDIA bloc, formed to take on the BJP earlier in the year ahead of the general election.
The two parties are contesting the Delhi election, due in February, as rivals.
