Maharashtra Inks ₹56,000-Crore Deals to Expand Dighi Port, Launch Water Taxis, and Boost EV Fleet

Maharashtra has signed memoranda of understanding (MoUs) worth Rs 56,000 crore to bolster maritime infrastructure, focusing on port expansion, water taxis, and electric vessel deployment as part of the India Maritime Week initiatives. The state government inked two major agreements for the development of Dighi Port in Raigad district and associated facilities, aiming to enhance coastal connectivity, promote sustainable transport, and generate employment. These investments align with national goals for blue economy growth and eco-friendly shipping under the Sagarmala programme.

The flagship MoU involves comprehensive upgrades at Dighi Port, including modern cargo handling terminals, logistics parks, and multimodal connectivity to reduce road congestion and lower carbon emissions. Another agreement emphasizes introducing water taxi services in Mumbai’s coastal waters and transitioning to electric vessels for passenger ferries, marking a shift toward green maritime mobility. Officials stated that the projects will integrate renewable energy sources and advanced navigation systems to ensure operational efficiency and environmental compliance.

Industry leaders hailed the deals as a catalyst for positioning Maharashtra as a maritime hub, with potential to handle increased trade volumes and attract global shipping lines. The initiatives are expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs while improving urban decongestation through waterway alternatives to overcrowded roads.

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With implementation timelines spanning the next five years, the MoUs underscore Maharashtra’s commitment to modernizing its 720-kilometer coastline. As detailed studies and environmental clearances progress, the state anticipates significant private sector participation to realise these ambitious infrastructure targets.

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