The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways conveyed the review of the State Maritime & Waterways Transport Committee (SMWTC) formulated in various states via video conferencing. The meeting was chaired by TK Ramachandran, Secretary, MoPSW, and brought together senior officials from about 30 States and Union Territories to ensure comprehensive development of maritime and waterways transport across India.
In his opening remarks, TK Ramachandran emphasized the importance of a unified approach to managing and integrating the waterways transportation sector. “This meeting marks a significant step towards realizing our vision of a robust and sustainable maritime and waterways transport system in India. Under the visionary leadership of our Prime Minister, the collaborative efforts of state and central agencies will be crucial in driving this sector forward,” he stated.
The meeting focused on the preparation of state-specific Maritime and Waterways Transport Master Plans, formulation of Maritime Sector Policies, Green Initiatives, Waterways Development, Cruise Tourism, Urban Water Transportation, and the Development of Lighthouses. The agenda also included a review of the Sagarmala Programme, the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, and opportunities in Ro-Ro / Ro-Pax / Ferry / Urban Water Transportation.
Key discussions during the meeting involved detailed discussions on the development of customized master plans for each state to address unique challenges and opportunities in the maritime and waterways transport sector; Formulation and implementation of comprehensive policies to promote growth and sustainability in the maritime sector; Exploration of opportunities to boost tourism and enhance urban water transport systems and plans to develop lighthouses as tourist attractions and to improve their navigational efficiency. Secretary MoPSW also mentioned that the Kochi Water Metro model could be adopted in various other states, such as Kolkata, Mumbai, Guwahati, and Goa.
TK Ramachandran highlighted the significance of the Sagarmala Programme and the NMHC at Lothal in enhancing India’s maritime heritage and infrastructure.
The Secretary applauded the efforts of the Chief Secretaries and Additional Chief Secretaries, who presented progress reports from their respective states. “The commitment and proactive steps taken by the states are commendable. MoPSWs goal is to establish SMWTCs in all 30 states and UTs, ensuring that every region benefits from the transformative potential of maritime and waterways transport,” he remarked. The meeting concluded with a pledge to foster collaborative solutions to enhance maritime and waterways transport in India. The Ministry reaffirmed its support for states in addressing issues and implementing initiatives that align with national maritime objectives. Joint Secretary (Sagarmala) emphasized, “Ministry is committed towards ensuring necessary funds and comprehensive support for planning and development of various transformative projects in each State and UT. MoPSWs goal is to foster sustainable growth and development in the maritime sector.”
