Rs 1.9K-crore projects to boost M’rashtra ports

Maharashtra is witnessing a significant push for maritime infrastructure under the Sagarmala scheme, with 31 projects that are either completed or currently under implementation at a cumulative cost of Rs 1,914.12 crore, revealed the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

Responding to a starred question by NCP MP Sunil Dattatre in the Lok Sabha on July 25, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal tabled a detailed statement outlining the state’s project status, funding flow, employment generation and future plans under the initiative.

According to the official records, 20 projects have already been completed at a cost of Rs 982.42 crore, while 11 projects, worth Rs 931.70 crore, are under implementation.

The ministry has sanctioned over Rs 801 crore for these projects, of which Rs 728.22 crore has already been released.

The Central Government is also funding 18 roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) ferry service projects to improve transportation and last-mile connectivity in tribal and remote hinterland regions of Maharashtra. These Ro-Ro links are expected to significantly enhance access to coastal and inland areas, where conventional road infrastructure remains inadequate.

“The Sagarmala scheme is not just a port development programme, it’s a vision to transform India's coastal economy through integrated development,” said the Minister in his written response.

The ministry estimates that the projects, majorly handled by the Mumbai Port Authority and the Maharashtra Maritime Board — have already generated over 2,600 direct and indirect jobs.

The minister further informed the House that the Maharashtra Government had constituted a State Maritime and Waterways Transport Committee (SMWTC) to ensure better synergy between state and central agencies. The committee will focus on streamlining coastal logistics and promoting port-led industrialisation, particularly in the underdeveloped regions of southern Maharashtra.