On Friday, the Centre announced plans to invest over Rs 2,000 crore in Goa’s maritime sector, prioritizing the Goa Water Metro project for first-phase implementation. This initiative aims to modernize the state’s coastal and inland waterways infrastructure. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, revealed these plans during the inauguration of the Rs 48.87-crore Captain of Ports Terminal Building in Panjim. He noted that this investment would build upon more than Rs 1,300 crore in infrastructure projects completed by the Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) since 2014.
A key component of the investment is the Goa Water Metro, a proposed river-based public transport system that will feature a 111-km network connecting nine major terminals across the state. Sonowal emphasized that this project represents a significant advancement in urban and inter-city mobility via Goa’s waterways. The planned investments will also encompass critical infrastructure enhancements, including the redevelopment of Berth No. 9 at Vasco Harbour and capital dredging, aimed at bolstering Goa’s maritime capabilities.
Sonowal highlighted the MPA’s achievement as India’s first green port and mentioned the establishment of the Goa Maritime Board, which will collaborate with the port authority to develop a long-term master plan for the state’s coastline. He commended the Goa government for completing the new terminal building and noted that Goa is leading in maritime reforms, being the first state in India to implement the Inland Vessels Act. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant remarked that Goa’s rivers, historically central to trade and transport, are set to play a vital role in future development.
Sawant described the new Captain of Ports complex as a representation of Goa’s maritime heritage and future aspirations. He stated that the state is advancing toward a modern, sustainable maritime ecosystem through enhanced governance, river traffic management, and improved public services. The newly inaugurated G+3 terminal building, designed to resemble a ship, spans over 4,405 square meters and includes administrative offices, marine and hydrographic divisions, security systems, and passenger amenities, along with a 450-seat amphitheater and recreational spaces.
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