The Awaaz Foundation has urged Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to intervene against the proposed advertising regulations by the Maharashtra Maritime Board. Concerns include light pollution, biodiversity loss, and visual degradation of coastal areas. They emphasize the need for public consultations and stricter regulations to protect the environment and public health.
The Mumbai Water Metro project aims to introduce ferries to ease traffic congestion, marking a significant advancement in India’s water transport. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized the state’s commitment to a sustainable system. A partnership with Norway’s Hyke AS will enhance infrastructure and develop advanced vessels, supporting the region’s growing transportation needs.
The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) has unveiled new advertising regulations for coastal areas and properties, allowing diverse formats such as hoardings, vessel displays, and even hot air balloon ads. These guidelines aim to enhance revenue generation through a structured bidding process, ensuring transparency in advertising activities across MMB-managed locations.
In a festive announcement, Nitesh Rane, Maharashtra’s Minister for Fisheries, revealed that employees of the Maharashtra Maritime Board will receive a special Diwali grant. For the first time, contractual employees will also benefit, receiving Rs 20,000, while regular staff will get Rs 50,000, fostering inclusivity and appreciation within the workforce.
Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane has directed officials to establish a single-window system for project approvals under the Maharashtra Maritime Board. This initiative aims to simplify the current process, which involves multiple departmental clearances. Rane also emphasized finalizing rental rates for stalls and expediting hoarding installations by November.
JSW Infrastructure Ltd. has been granted a letter of intent from the Maharashtra Maritime Board for a multipurpose port in Palghar. The project aims to boost economic activity and job opportunities in the region. With plans to increase capacity to 400 MTPA by FY30, this development aligns with the company’s growth strategy.
The Vadhavan Port project will be undertaken under the PPP mode, with a total cost of Rs. 17,709 crore for land reclamation and dredging, and Rs. 38,976 crore for other infrastructure works. This marks a shift from the previous plan of EPC funding by JNPA and MMB, with private operators covering the remaining Rs. 37,244 crore.
