Correct Option
The correct option is 1, 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
India has 13 major ports and roughly 200 minor/intermediate ports. The major ports are administered by the Central Government. Their geographical location (East vs. West Coast) and physical nature (natural vs. artificial, riverine vs. coastal) determine their operational challenges and trade specializations.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: Kolkata Port is the only riverine major port in India, located on the left bank of the Hooghly River. Being situated inland from the sea, it faces a significant problem of siltation, requiring constant dredging to maintain navigability. The Farakka Barrage was constructed partly to ensure a steady supply of water to flush out silt.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Chennai Port is an artificial harbor located on the East Coast. The Bay of Bengal is historically prone to frequent cyclonic disturbances, especially during the retreating monsoon (October-November), which impacts port operations.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Vishakhapatnam is described as a landlocked harbor connected to the sea by a channel cut through solid rock and sand. It is well-protected from monsoon waves by a high promontory known as the 'Dolphin’s Nose' hill. It is traditionally cited as the deepest landlocked and protected port among the major ports.
- Statement 4 is Incorrect: Marmagao Port, situated at the entrance of the Zuari estuary in Goa, is a natural harbor. It is primarily engaged in the export of iron ore (mainly to Japan), not petroleum imports. Petroleum imports are majorly handled by ports like Kandla, Mumbai, and Mangalore.
Key Takeaway
Kolkata Port is unique as a riverine port facing siltation; Vishakhapatnam is a landlocked, protected deep-water port; and Marmagao is specialized in iron ore exports.