en.Wedoany.com Reported - Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal announced at the inauguration ceremony of the Captain of Ports Terminal Building in Panaji that the proposed Goa Water Metro has entered a priority implementation phase. The building, costing INR 488.7 million, was officially opened on Friday.

The Minister stated that since 2014, the Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) has completed infrastructure projects worth INR 13 billion. Projects totaling over INR 20 billion will be undertaken in the coming years, including the renovation of Berth No. 9 at Vasco Harbour, dredging works, and other special initiatives aimed at enhancing operational capacity and regional connectivity.

The Mormugao Port Authority, described by the Minister as India's first green port, reflects investments in environmentally friendly facilities. The proposed Goa Maritime Board, once established, will work jointly with the Port Authority to formulate a forward-looking master plan for the development of the Goa coastline, aligning development with sustainable development goals.

The proposed Goa Water Metro plans to build a 111-kilometer river transport network with nine major hub stations, modeled after the Kochi Water Metro. The project is expected to deploy up to 87 high-speed vessels to provide an alternative mode of transport, alleviate road congestion across the state, and expand commuting options.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated at the ceremony that this development direction is moving towards a modern, sustainable, and future-oriented maritime ecosystem. The comprehensive initiatives will enhance tourism, local mobility, and port efficiency, with implementation timelines and tender details to follow standard procurement procedures.