PANAJI
The State government has announced the establishment of the Goa Maritime Board for Integrated Port-led Development along with the formulation of a State Maritime Waterways Master Plan, which is currently in the pipeline.
Presenting the Budget for the Ports department with an allocation of Rs 49.41 crore, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant further revealed plans for the development of seven passenger jetties.
Speaking on the floor of the House, he also earmarked Rs 10 crore for the Sagarmala project.
The CM also announced an allocation of Rs 14 crore for the development of 10 floating jetties under the Inland Waterways Authority of India and a significant allocation of Rs 48.87 crore for the construction of a terminal building at Panaji jetty.
In a move to enhance maritime safety and navigation, the government will set up six beacons and 15 lighthouses across the State.
For the River Navigation Department, Rs 85.80 crore has been allocated. The government will commission two Ro-Ro ferry boats along with two twin-screw and single-screw ferry boats.
With ferry boats operating from early morning till past midnight on several routes, the government has decided to introduce a three-shift system for ferry boat staff to ensure better service efficiency.
