Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The long-awaited Goa Water Metro project has officially entered Phase One of implementation, with the Union Government according it priority status, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal announced on Friday.
Speaking at a function in Panaji, Sonowal said the project was taken up on priority following a request from Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant and in response to the aspirations of the people of Goa. He said the Centre is committed to taking the Water Metro project forward as part of its vision to strengthen maritime infrastructure and sustainable transport.
Calling India the world’s fastest-growing economy, the Union Minister said the country’s infrastructure push continues under the Centre’s policy of “Reform, Perform, Transform and Inform,” with greater emphasis on modern connectivity and port-led development.
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant welcomed the announcement, describing it as a significant step towards transforming Goa’s inland water transport system. He also revealed that a dedicated tourist terminal at the Mormugao Port Authority is under construction and is expected to be completed within the next six months, boosting cruise and coastal tourism.
Sawant further said the newly inaugurated Captain of Ports administrative building is a first-of-its-kind structure in the country, distinguished by its ship-inspired architecture. He noted that the building reflects Goa’s rich maritime legacy while serving as a symbol of the state’s future in marine infrastructure and water-based transport.
Highlighting Goa’s historical importance as a maritime gateway, the Chief Minister said the state’s legacy—from the Portuguese era to the naval achievements associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj—continues to shape its development vision.
Ports Minister Digambar Kamat urged citizens to support development projects that contribute to the state’s progress. Referring to the construction of floating jetties, he clarified that the facilities are being developed to improve water transport and strengthen Goa’s maritime sector, and not for coal transportation.
The announcement marks a major milestone for Goa’s transport infrastructure, with the Water Metro project expected to provide an environmentally friendly and efficient mode of connectivity across the state’s river network.
