From Coastal Hamlet to International Port The Time Tells a Tale

This article by Gajanan Khergamker makes us co-passengers in the journey of Karanja Port. Earlier neglected and insignificant, Karanja, with its deep harbour, abundant land, and proximity to Mumbai, emerged as a viable solution in the government's quest for another port in Mumbai's vicinity. This marked a new beginning for the coastal fishing community.

- Gajanan Khergamker

Long before Karanja emerged as a bustling fishing port, it was a serene village nestled along the Konkan coast. Its pristine shores and abundant marine life attracted traditional fisherfolk who practised artisanal fishing methods. For centuries, these fishermen relied on wooden boats, handmade nets, and traditional knowledge passed down through generations to navigate the waters of the Arabian Sea. The catch, comprising mackerel, sardines, pomfret, and prawns, primarily catered to local markets and subsistence needs.

Anecdotes from older generations of fishermen recount tales of community gatherings on moonlit nights, where elders shared navigation techniques and storm-forecasting tips, relying on natural indicators like wind patterns and cloud formations. Karanja's historical significance extends beyond its fishing heritage. During the Maratha period, the village functioned as a minor port for coastal trade. Records from the late 18th century suggest that Karanja played a modest role in facilitating the movement of goods like rice, coconuts, and spices between other coastal towns. The Marathas, under the leadership of figures like Chimaji Appa, are believed to have used the region for strategic naval operations.

With the advent of British rule, Karanja's strategic location caught the attention of colonial authorities. Though the British heavily invested in developing Mumbai's Sassoon Docks, Karanja was intermittently used as a fallback port during periods of congestion. By the mid-19th century, British engineers recognized Karanja's potential due to its natural harbour, although no significant development took place at the time.