Goa Government Signs MoU with HITES to Modernise and Disaster-Proof Ports and Inland Waterways

Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Panaji; January 2026: The Government of Goa, through the Captain of Ports Department, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with HITES (HLL Infratech Services Ltd.), a Central Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, to enhance and future-proof the state’s maritime infrastructure.

Under the collaboration, HITES will support the modernisation and disaster-proofing of Goa’s ports and inland waterways by deploying AI-based monitoring systems and technology-driven, disaster-resilient solutions to ensure long-term structural safety, operational continuity and enhanced public safety. The partnership will focus on disaster mitigation and rehabilitation works, including strengthening jetties and waterfront infrastructure, enhancing search and rescue capabilities, inducting specialised disaster management boats, and improving oil spill preparedness and response mechanisms.
The scope of work also includes scientific dredging of rivers and channels to prevent flooding and improve water flow, construction of retaining walls and embankments to protect against erosion, installation of AI-enabled surveillance systems, and deployment of public warning and early alert systems for extreme weather events such as cyclones, floods and tidal surges. Additional initiatives include underground cabling to reduce vulnerability during disasters, development of cyclone shelters in vulnerable coastal and riverine areas, support for coastal road infrastructure for evacuation and emergency access, and strengthening emergency preparedness through AI integration across planning, monitoring and response operations.
The initiative reflects the Government of Goa’s commitment to sustainable coastal development, enhanced maritime safety and climate-adaptive infrastructure, positioning the state as a model for technology-led, disaster-resilient maritime governance aligned with national priorities and global best practices.