Tag: maritime infrastructure

Social

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

rencygomes02

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.

National

India’s Largest Cruise Terminal Inaugurated in Mumbai by PM Modi

Tanisha Cardozo

In a major boost to India’s maritime infrastructure and cruise tourism sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT) at Ballard Pier today. Developed under the ambitious ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’, the terminal is set to position Mumbai as a premier global cruise tourism destination.

Spanning over 415,000 square feet, the MICT is now India’s largest cruise terminal and is designed to handle up to one million passengers annually. With a state-of-the-art design, the terminal can accommodate five cruise ships simultaneously and is equipped with 72 check-in and immigration counters, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for international and domestic travellers alike.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, praised the project’s alignment with the Prime Minister’s vision of transforming India into a global cruise hub. He emphasized the historical and strategic significance of Mumbai as a coastal city and its potential to contribute to the country’s economic and tourism growth. The MICT is expected to play a pivotal role in boosting the domestic cruise sector and attracting international tourists.

Alongside the terminal, several complementary projects were also inaugurated to promote cultural tourism and sustainability, including the renovated Fire Memorial at Victoria Docks, heritage lighting installations at Port House and Evelyn House, and the beautified Sagar Upvan garden. These initiatives underscore the holistic approach of enhancing not just infrastructure but also the cultural and environmental fabric of the region.

With this development, Mumbai sets sail into a new era of cruise tourism, standing tall as a gateway to global maritime connectivity and world-class travel experiences.

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Goa Launches Ro-Ro Ferries ‘Dwarka’ & ‘Gangotri’ on Mandovi River

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Goa has added a modern touch to its rich maritime legacy with the launch of two state-of-the-art Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) ferries — Dwarka and Gangotri — on the Chodan–Ribandar waterway route across the Mandovi River.

Inaugurated on July 14th by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, the event saw the presence of Union MoS for New & Renewable Energy Shripad Naik, RND Minister Subhash Phal Dessai, Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade, Mayem MLA Premendra Shet, and Inland Waterways Secretary Cheshta Yadav, IAS.

The project, worth ₹25 crore, was executed through a public-private partnership (PPP) with Vijai Marine Shipyards, a Goan shipbuilding firm known for its innovation and quality.

“These ferries will enhance eco-friendly and efficient transport, reduce traffic congestion, and serve as a model for inland water transport across India,” said the Chief Minister during the launch.

Boost to Connectivity and Eco-Transport

The Ro-Ro ferries are equipped to carry both passengers and vehicles, serving as a lifeline for residents, especially islanders who frequently travel between Chodan and Ribandar. The launch aligns with Goa’s broader goal of developing smart transport infrastructure using its vast network of rivers.

Officials also hinted at plans to replicate this model across eight additional waterway routes in the state, with studies already underway to identify viable corridors.

Maritime Innovation from Goa to the Nation

Vijai Marine Shipyards, praised by the CM during the launch, has established itself as a key player in India’s coastal and inland vessel sector. The Dwarka and Gangotri ferries represent locally manufactured, globally relevant solutions — a testament to Goa’s industrial capabilities.

This initiative is not just about connectivity — it’s about shaping a sustainable, modern, and resilient future for Goa. By tapping into its rivers, the state is embracing clean mobility, reducing carbon footprints, and offering residents an affordable, efficient alternative to road transport.