Master plan for state’s waterways being prepared

Panaji: The captain of ports department has decided to prepare a maritime and waterways master plan for Goa’s 105km-long coastline and riverine network. The master plan will have short-term, medium-term and long-term goals to boost maritime cargo transportation and passenger movement.
Department officials said that the master plan is crucial for Goa to undertake infrastructure upgrades and capacity expansion at minor ports and jetties, along with greater transportation via the national waterways. The department is likely to look at private sector investments and central funding to develop new infrastructure or services, if required. This could create new revenue streams for the captain of ports department, said officials.
“The idea is still in the nascent stage. The master plan has to be prepared in accordance with the guidelines of the Union ministry of ports shipping and waterways. The primary goals are infrastructure development, economic growth and environmental protection,” said an official.
The department is likely to appoint a consultant to draft the plan, and the consultant is also expected to assist the department with the implementation of the plan once the cabinet grants approval. Sources said that it could take 10-12 months for the plan to be prepared.
“A thorough assessment of the current infrastructure, inland waterways, various stakeholders, and coastal resources has to be conducted. Gathering data on capacities, cargo volumes, navigable waterways, and industrial areas will require time. Only once that is done can the department identify gaps and areas for improvement,” said an official.
The Centre has laid a strong emphasis on coastal development through the Maritime India Vision 2030, Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, and Blue Economy Vision.