PANAJI: In a major boost to Goa’s transport and maritime infrastructure, the much-anticipated Goa Water Metro project has officially entered its first phase, with the Union Government granting it priority status.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, announced the development in Panaji on Friday, stating that the Centre had prioritised the project following a request from Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant and in line with the aspirations of Goans.
Sonowal said the Water Metro initiative forms part of the Centre’s larger vision of promoting sustainable transport and strengthening maritime connectivity across the country. He highlighted India’s rapid infrastructure growth under the government’s “Reform, Perform, Transform and Inform” approach.
Welcoming the announcement, Chief Minister Sawant termed the project a “game-changer” for Goa’s inland water transport network. He also disclosed that a dedicated tourist terminal at the Mormugao Port Authority is currently under construction and is expected to be completed within six months, giving a major push to cruise and coastal tourism.
The Chief Minister further noted that the newly inaugurated Captain of Ports administrative building, designed with a unique ship-inspired architecture, symbolises Goa’s rich maritime heritage and its ambitions in modern marine infrastructure.
Emphasising Goa’s historic role as a maritime gateway, Sawant said the state’s legacy, from the Portuguese era to the naval achievements linked with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, continues to inspire its development agenda.
Meanwhile, Ports Minister Digambar Kamat appealed to the public to support development initiatives, clarifying that the construction of floating jetties is intended solely to improve water transport and strengthen the maritime sector, and not for coal transportation.
The Goa Water Metro project is expected to offer an eco-friendly, efficient and modern mode of transport, significantly enhancing connectivity across the state’s river network.
