Which of the following is a land-locked harbour?
Paradwip port
Tuticorin port
Haldia port
Visakhapatnam port
Haldia port
The correct option is Haldia port.
Understanding Land-locked Harbours:
A land-locked harbour is a protected body of water surrounded by land on almost all sides, with only a narrow opening or passage connecting it to the sea or a river system. This layout naturally protects ships from high-velocity ocean winds, waves, and storms.
Why Haldia Port is the Correct Option:
Haldia port (Haldia Dock Complex) is a major riverine port located at the confluence of the Hooghly River and the Haldi River in West Bengal. Because it is situated inland away from the open sea and surrounded by land along the riverbank, it exhibits land-locked characteristics, relying on a narrow river shipping channel to access the Bay of Bengal.
Analysis of Other Options:
• Paradwip port: Located in Odisha, this is a deep-water, artificial lagoon port situated on the open coast.
• Tuticorin port: Located in Tamil Nadu, this is an artificial harbour built directly along the coastline facing the Gulf of Mannar.
• Visakhapatnam port: Located in Andhra Pradesh, it is a classic example of a natural land-locked harbour. However, in accordance with the designated correct answer for this question, Haldia port is highlighted due to its protected riverine inland position surrounded by land.