Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, recently conducted a review of the progress made on the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal, Gujarat. The project, under the Sagarmala Programme of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, is set to become the world’s largest maritime museum complex.
During the review, Minister Sonowal expressed his gratitude to the Government of Gujarat for their continuous support in developing the project. He highlighted the significance of showcasing India’s rich maritime heritage and ensuring that it is easily accessible to the general public.
As part of the review, an MoU was signed with the Ministry of Defence, specifically the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, for the establishment of a Naval gallery within the NMHC complex. The gallery, titled The Journey of Indian Navy & Coast Guard, aims to educate visitors about the naval history and contributions of these organizations.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Union Minister of Health Mansukh Mandaviya also attended the review meeting and expressed their satisfaction with the progress of the project. They assured their full cooperation in undertaking various responsibilities assigned to the Gujarat state.
The Government of Gujarat has allocated 375 acres of land for the NMHC project and provided additional land for staff quarters. Infrastructure development, including the construction of a four-lane road and water supply lines, is already underway. The government has also contributed Rs 150 Crores for the development of basic internal infrastructure.
The NMHC will be developed in an area of approximately 400 acres with an estimated cost of Rs.4500 crores. The funding for the project will come from public and private institutes, organizations, and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Major ports in India are also contributing a fund of Rs 209 crores.
The project’s physical progress is currently over 30%, with tenders floated for the first five galleries. Lothal Town, which holds historical significance as one of the southernmost sites of the ancient Indus Valley civilization, is in the final stages of preparation.
NMHC aims to be the first-of-its-kind museum in India dedicated to showcasing the country’s maritime heritage. It aims to highlight India’s robust maritime history and vibrant coastal tradition, raising awareness and boosting the image of India’s maritime heritage internationally.
Under the Sagarmala Programme, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has identified 74 projects worth Rs 57,000 crores in Gujarat for the development of the port sector. Of these, 15 projects worth Rs 9,000 crores have been completed, while others are at various stages of implementation and development.
The review meeting concluded with Minister Mansukh Mandaviya commending the efforts of the Gujarat state government and emphasizing the importance of coordination to ensure timely completion of the project.
The NMHC in Lothal is set to become a major tourist attraction and a testament to India’s maritime heritage. With its extensive exhibits and engaging galleries, the complex will provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of India’s diverse maritime history.
