Correct Option (C)
Mumbai Port, specifically Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPT) located near Mumbai, consistently handles the highest tonnage of import cargo among Indian ports. This is primarily due to its strategic location, extensive connectivity to the hinterland, and well-developed infrastructure for container and bulk cargo handling. It serves as a major gateway for India's international trade, particularly for containerized goods.
Incorrect Options:
A) Calcutta (Kolkata Port): While a significant port on the eastern coast, Kolkata Port primarily serves the eastern and northeastern regions of India. Its cargo handling capacity, especially for imports, is lower compared to Mumbai, partly due to navigational challenges in the Hooghly River and a focus on specific cargo types.
B) Kandla Port: Located in Gujarat, Kandla is a major port for handling crude oil, petroleum products, and dry bulk cargo. It plays a crucial role in India's energy security and industrial raw material imports. However, its overall import tonnage, particularly for diverse cargo types, does not surpass that of Mumbai Port.
D) Visakhapatnam Port: Situated on the eastern coast, Visakhapatnam is a deep-water port handling a variety of cargo, including iron ore, coal, and petroleum products. It is vital for the industrial belt of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Despite its importance, its total import tonnage remains lower than that of Mumbai Port.