Cabinet Approves National Maritime Heritage Complex Development

October 10, 2024

The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal, Gujarat. This project will celebrate India’s long and rich maritime history.

Project Overview

The NMHC project is being developed in two main phases:

Phase 1B and Phase 2 have been given the green light. The money for these phases will come from voluntary contributions.
In Phase 1B, a special Light House Museum will be built with funds from the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships.

Project Management

A new organization, called a society, will be set up to manage the project’s future phases. This society will follow the rules of the Societies Registration Act, 1860, and will be led by a Governing Council headed by the Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.

Current Progress

Phase 1A is already under construction and is more than 60% complete. It is expected to be finished by 2025.

Both Phase 1A and Phase 1B are using the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model to speed up the work. Phase 2 will use a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) approach, meaning both the government and private companies will work together.

Economic Impact

The NMHC is expected to create around 22,000 jobs, with 15,000 direct jobs and 7,000 indirect ones. This will help local communities and provide opportunities for tourists, researchers, and various organizations.

Vision and Background

The NMHC project is part of the Prime Minister’s vision to showcase India’s 4,500-year-old maritime heritage. The architectural masterplan has been designed by well-known architect Hafeez Contractor, and Tata Projects Ltd is responsible for building Phase 1A.

Future Phases and Features

Phase 1A: Includes a museum with six galleries displaying naval artefacts and a replica of the ancient Lothal township.

Phase 1B: Will add eight more galleries, a world-class Light House Museum, and a Bagicha complex (a garden area).

Phase 2: Will include Coastal States Pavilions, a hospitality zone (hotels and restaurants), an ecological resort, and recreational parks to make the NMHC a top tourist and heritage site.

The NMHC aims to celebrate India’s long history with the sea, create jobs, and boost tourism in the region.

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