Sarbananda Sonowal Unveils New Captain of Ports Terminal in Goa, Prioritises Water Metro Project

Panaji, June 27: Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated Goa’s new Captain of Ports Terminal Building in Panaji, marking a major step in strengthening the state’s maritime infrastructure. During the event, he also announced that the proposed Goa Water Metro project has been accorded Phase-I implementation priority, reinforcing the Centre’s focus on sustainable water-based transport.

Constructed at a cost of ₹48.87 crore, the modern G+3 terminal has been developed by the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC). Spread across more than 4,400 square metres, the facility has been designed to improve maritime administration, vessel monitoring, navigation services and public amenities while replacing the old Captain of Ports office that had outgrown its operational capacity.

Inspired by the appearance of a ship anchored along the riverbank, the building overlooks the Mandovi River and combines administrative functions with public spaces celebrating Goa’s maritime heritage. It houses advanced navigational control systems, hydrographic and marine offices, a radio communication centre, conference halls, passenger facilities and a double-height public lobby. The complex also includes a rooftop amphitheatre with seating for around 450 people, a restaurant and an open terrace to support public events and generate additional revenue.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, Union Minister of State Shripad Naik, Goa Ministers Digambar Kamat and Subhash Phal Dessai, along with Members of Parliament, MLAs, senior government officials and representatives from the maritime sector.

Addressing the gathering, Sonowal described the terminal as more than just a government office, calling it a symbol of Goa’s maritime identity and its commitment to modernisation, sustainability and people-centric development.

Highlighting the country’s maritime achievements over the past decade, the Union Minister said India’s port capacity has nearly doubled while vessel turnaround time has reduced significantly from 95 hours to 41 hours. He added that the number of Indian seafarers has crossed 3.23 lakh, coastal cargo movement has more than doubled, cruise tourism has expanded rapidly and the number of operational National Waterways has increased from three to 32.

Sonowal also noted that India has emerged as the world’s leading ship recycling nation by gross tonnage, reflecting its growing role in environmentally sustainable maritime practices.

Praising Goa’s maritime reforms, the Minister said the state was the first in the country to implement the Inland Vessels Act, 2021. He added that initiatives such as the proposed Goa Maritime Board, the Goa Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Policy, and the Maritime Master Plan would further accelerate the state’s maritime development.

The Minister highlighted the progress made at Mormugao Port Authority, where infrastructure projects worth over ₹1,300 crore have already been completed, while projects exceeding ₹2,000 crore are currently under execution. These include the redevelopment of Berth No. 9, the Vasco Bay project, capital dredging works and a modern Seafarers’ Club. He also noted that Mormugao has become India’s first Green Port and the first port to introduce Green Ship Incentives.

Announcing that the Goa Water Metro project has been placed under Phase-I priority, Sonowal said the initiative would provide an environmentally friendly and efficient urban transport system while boosting tourism and improving connectivity across the state.

He further appreciated the efforts of the Captain of Ports Department in modernising river transport through floating jetties, passenger terminals and upgraded navigation safety systems. Congratulating the Goa Government on establishing the Goa Institute of Maritime Excellence (GIME), he said the institute would play a significant role in maritime education, inland waterways training, vessel operations and skill development.

Reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to Goa’s maritime growth, Sonowal said the government would continue working with the state to develop world-class infrastructure under the Sagarmala Programme and Maritime India Vision 2030, aimed at improving coastal connectivity, logistics efficiency and sustainable economic development.