Union Ministers Mansukh Mandaviya and Sarbananda Sonowal and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel visit the museum site of National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) project to review the ongoing work in Lothal on Saturday, December 28, 2024
| Photo Credit: ANI
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal along with the Minister of Labour and Employment and Youth Affairs, Mansukh Mandaviya and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel held a joint review meeting to assess the progress of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) here on Saturday (December 28, 2024).
Under the Sagarmala Programme, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways is developing the NMHC at Lothal in Gujarat. This world-class facility will showcase India’s maritime heritage from ancient to modern times, adopting an “edutainment” approach.
Lothal, a prominent city of the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation dating back to 2400 BCE, holds historical significance for its advanced dockyard, thriving trade, and renowned bead-making industry. Artifacts such as seals, tools, and pottery unearthed by archaeologists reveal a rich cultural and economic history, making it a pivotal site of the Harappan civilisation.
The Ministers toured key project landmarks, including INS Nishank, the Lothal Jetty Walkway, and the Museum Block. They also interacted with onsite workers to understand their challenges and progress. Mr. Sonowal expressed satisfaction with the significant milestones achieved in civil infrastructure development, noting that the project is advancing on schedule. With 65% of Phase 1A already completed, the project is on track to meet its timeline.
A key focus of the review was the integration of local communities into the project’s development. Mr. Sonowal said: “NMHC project will boost tourism, provide a platform for maritime education, and foster collaboration between India’s maritime community and the global industry.”
He further said, “This project will create employment, foster skill development, and empower the youth of Gujarat.”
The NMHC is poised to become a cornerstone of India’s maritime legacy, harmonising cultural and historical significance with economic and educational development.
Senior officials of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, the Ministry of Defence (Navy and Coast Guard), the Government of Gujarat, architect Hafeez Contractor, and Tata Projects Ltd. also joined the review meeting.
Published – December 28, 2024 11:23 pm IST
