India's Lothal Set to Host World's Largest Maritime Heritage Complex

The Union Cabinet, led by PM Narendra Modi, approved the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal, Gujarat. The complex will become the world's largest of its kind, featuring various phases aimed at showcasing India's maritime history, while generating substantial employment and growth opportunities.

The Union Cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has sanctioned the creation of the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, Gujarat. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has indicated that this institution will emerge as the largest maritime heritage complex globally.

Addressing the media post-cabinet meeting, Vaishnaw stated, "Today's Cabinet approval of the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal aims to display India's extensive and varied maritime heritage, targeting global prominence." This two-phase project has received in-principle approval for Phases 1B and 2, contingent upon the master plan. Funding will draw from voluntary contributions, with construction set to begin following resource acquisition.

Phase 1B's Lighthouse Museum development will be financed by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships. A distinct society, governed by a council chaired by the Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, will manage NMHC's future phases under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. This council will supervise the NMHC's establishment, management, and operations at Lothal.

Phase 1A's current proceedings have seen over 60% physical completion, aiming for a 2025 finish. Phases 1A and 1B will proceed under EPC mode, whereas Phase 2 will utilize land subleasing or public-private partnerships for NMHC's world-class museum formation. This initiative is anticipated to generate approximately 22,000 jobs, including 15,000 direct and 7,000 indirect opportunities.

NMHC's implementation is poised to enhance growth and benefit local communities, tourists, researchers, scholars, governmental bodies, educational institutions, cultural entities, as well as environmental and business sectors. Phase 1A will feature an NMHC museum equipped with six galleries, notably an extensive Indian Navy & Coast Guard gallery displaying naval artifacts, a Lothal township replica, open aquatic gallery, and jetty walkway.

Phase 1B plans further expansion with eight additional galleries, establishing the world's tallest Lighthouse Museum, a Bagicha complex for substantial car parking, dining facilities, and medical services. Phase 2 will incorporate Coastal State Pavilions by coastal states and territories, a hospitality area with a maritime-themed eco-resort and "museotels," along with an authentic Lothal city recreation, maritime institute, hostel, and themed parks.

(With inputs from agencies.)