New Delhi: The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW), Government of India, today conducted a comprehensive review of the State Maritime & Waterways Transport Committee (SMWTC) initiatives across various states through a video conferencing session. The meeting, chaired by TK Ramachandran, Secretary, MoPSW, brought together senior officials from approximately 30 States and Union Territories, aiming to ensure the integrated development of maritime and waterways transport throughout the country.
In his opening remarks, TK Ramachandran emphasized the necessity of a unified approach to managing and integrating the waterways transportation sector. “Today’s 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, the 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 included:
- Customized State Master Plans: Addressing unique challenges and opportunities in the maritime and waterways transport sector.
- Comprehensive Policies: Promoting growth and sustainability in the maritime sector.
- Tourism and Urban Water Transport: Exploring opportunities to boost tourism and enhance urban water transport systems.
- Lighthouse Development: Plans to develop lighthouses as tourist attractions and improve their navigational efficiency. The Kochi Water Metro model was suggested for adoption in 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. He commended the efforts of 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. MoPSW’s 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, “The Ministry is committed to ensuring necessary funds and comprehensive support for the planning and development of various transformative projects in each State and UT. MoPSW’s goal is to foster sustainable growth and development in the maritime sector.”
Representatives from various states and UTs actively participated in the discussions, providing valuable inputs for improving the overall maritime ecosystem in the country. Adil Khan, Secretary to the Government of Assam, Transport Department, emphasized their commitment to enhancing cargo transportation. Octavio Antony Rodrigues, Captain of Ports, Goa, recommended adopting hydrogen cell technology and retrofitting initiatives under the Harit Nauka Scheme. Dr. Manik Gursal, CEO of the Maharashtra Maritime Board, highlighted the importance of GST relaxation and proposed training and curriculum development under the Inland Vessel Act.
Recognizing the need for a unified approach to manage and integrate the waterways transportation sector, MoPSW has established SMWTCs to coordinate various initiatives and schemes within each state. These committees will be pivotal in consolidating efforts and providing focused leadership in the maritime and waterways sector. Each SMWTC will be headed by the Chief Secretary or Additional Chief Secretary and include representatives from major ports, maritime boards, state PWD, Inland Waterways, Department of Tourism, Department of Fisheries, Railways, NHAI, Customs, etc.
Currently, SMWTCs have been constituted in 13 states, including Andhra Pradesh, Mizoram, Himachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Bihar, Assam, Goa, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Lakshadweep, with plans to establish them in all 30 coastal and waterways states and UTs of India.
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