India Sets Sail: World's Largest Maritime Complex Approved for Gujarat's Lothal

India's Union Cabinet has greenlit the ambitious National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) project in Lothal, Gujarat. This monumental venture aims to honor India's maritime legacy with the world's largest marine heritage site. Construction advances in phases, promising economic growth, job creation, and a rich cultural experience through unique galleries and museums.

In a significant move to celebrate India's maritime history, the Union Cabinet, spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has sanctioned the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) project at Lothal, Gujarat. This initiative, highlighted by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, is destined to be the largest maritime heritage complex globally, a testament to India's vast nautical legacy.

The two-phase project recently received an 'in-principle' go-ahead, with Phases 1B and 2 based on a comprehensive master plan. Funding for this colossal endeavor will stem from voluntary contributions, and construction will commence once ample resources are amassed. The Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL) is set to fund the Lighthouse Museum segment under Phase 1B, while a separate society will oversee future phases.

Currently, Phase 1A is nearing completion, showcasing over 60% progress and scheduled for completion by 2025. The project promises substantial job creation with around 22,000 job opportunities, fostering economic growth. Plans for additional galleries, world-class exhibits, and tourism-centric facilities aim to captivate scholars, tourists, and maritime enthusiasts alike, while spurring regional development.

(With inputs from agencies.)