Goa to be developed as cargo and cruise hub

The central government is investing Rs101.72 crore for developing international and domestic cruise terminals, besides a ferry terminal at Goa’s Mormugao Port, as part of a plan to develop Goa as a cargo and cruise hub.

The central and the state governments are jointly implementing the programme under the Sagarmala Scheme for developing and expanding India’s shipping industry.

The project is scheduled for completion by March 2025. 

The project includes building new terminals and expanding existing ones and upgrading equipment. Besides, it is proposed to enhance port connectivity and promote coastal shipping through incentives like subsidies or reduced charges. 

The government launched the Cruise Bharat Mission to give a boost to cruise activities, which will have a multiplier impact on the economy by creating jobs in transportation, hospitality, retail, and tourism activities, thereby boosting revenues of local businesses. 

Besides, the creation of integrated cruise circuits will improve local connectivity through enhanced inland shipping services, including ferry and RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) services.

The union ministry of ports, shipping and waterways is also planning to build nine jetties across the Goa coast to boost cargo movement via inland waterways and reduce traffic congestion on roads. 

The government is preparing detailed project reports (DPRs) for construction of the jetties. Union minister of ports, shipping and waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal informed the Rajya Sabha in a written replay on Tuesday.