India has become the top nation for ship recycling globally in terms of gross tonnage, showcasing its dedication to environmentally responsible maritime practices. The new Captain of Ports Terminal Building in Panaji, Goa, inaugurated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, is a waterfront facility costing Rs 48.87 crore. This facility, spanning over 4,405 square meters, aims to enhance maritime administration, vessel monitoring, and navigation while supporting sustainable maritime development in the state.
Highlighting the significant progress in India’s maritime sector under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in the past 12 years, Minister Sonowal mentioned that the country’s ports have nearly doubled their capacity. Additionally, vessel turnaround time has been reduced from 95 hours to 41 hours. India’s seafaring workforce has grown to over 3.23 lakh, coastal cargo movement has more than doubled, and cruise passenger traffic has increased over fourfold. Moreover, operational National Waterways have expanded from three to 32.
Minister Sonowal commended the Goa Government for its leadership in maritime reforms, particularly as the first state to implement the Inland Vessels Act, 2021. He also highlighted upcoming initiatives such as the proposed Goa Maritime Board, the Goa Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Policy, and the Maritime Master Plan, which are set to further bolster the state’s maritime ecosystem.
The rapid development of the Mormugao Port Authority was emphasized by Sonowal, with infrastructure projects exceeding Rs 1,300 crore completed since 2014 and projects worth over Rs 2,000 crore currently under implementation. Furthermore, the Goa Water Metro project has been prioritized for Phase-I implementation, as announced during the event attended by dignitaries including Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant and Union Minister of State for Power Shripad Naik.
