Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, along with the Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs Mansukh Mandaviya and the Chief Minister of Gujarat Bhupendra Patel, conducted a joint review on Saturday at Lothal in Gujarat to assess the progress of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) project.

The Ministers toured key project landmarks, including INS Nishank, the Lothal Jetty Walkway, and the Museum Block. They also interacted with onsite workers to understand their challenges and progress, stated an official release here. Under the Sagarmala Programme, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways is developing the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, Gujarat. This facility will showcase India’s maritime heritage from ancient to modern times, adopting an innovative “edutainment” approach using cutting-edge technology to spread awareness and attract international tourists.

Sonowal expressed satisfaction with the significant milestones in civil infrastructure development, noting that the project is advancing on schedule. With 65 percent of Phase 1A of the NHMC project already completed, it is on track to meet its timeline and establish itself as a global beacon of maritime heritage, the release added. Lothal, a prominent city of the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation dating back to 2400 BCE, holds historical significance for its advanced dockyard, thriving trade, and renowned bead-making industry.