The Centre has announced a ₹2,000 crore investment plan to strengthen Goa’s maritime infrastructure, with projects spanning port development, inland waterways and the introduction of a Water Metro system aimed at improving urban mobility and coastal connectivity. The announcement was made by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal during the inauguration of the new Captain of Ports building in Panaji.
Speaking on the occasion, Sonowal said the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has identified projects worth nearly ₹2,000 crore for Goa that will be implemented over the coming years to modernise the state’s maritime ecosystem. The investment programme will focus on strengthening port infrastructure, enhancing inland water transport and supporting the long-term growth of the coastal economy.
A key announcement was the proposed introduction of a Water Metro network in Goa, modelled on the successful Kochi Water Metro. The project is expected to provide an alternative mode of public transport by connecting locations through the state’s rivers and waterways, easing road congestion while promoting sustainable mobility and tourism. Goa has already identified multiple routes for the proposed network as part of the project’s preliminary planning.
The minister said the investment programme aligns with the Centre’s broader vision of developing waterways as an integral component of India’s transport infrastructure. Besides improving passenger mobility, the projects are expected to strengthen cargo movement, maritime services and tourism-related activities, creating new economic opportunities for the state.
During the event, Sonowal also inaugurated the newly constructed Captain of Ports headquarters, describing it as a landmark addition to Goa’s maritime infrastructure. The building has been designed to reflect the state’s rich seafaring heritage while serving as the administrative hub for maritime operations.
The announcement comes as the Centre advances a national Water Metro programme, with Goa among the states being considered for expansion of inland water-based public transport under the proposed National Water Metro Policy. The initiative seeks to leverage existing waterways to provide efficient, environmentally friendly and integrated urban mobility solutions across the country.