The State of Maharashtra, the most industrialised state, With Mumbai as the financial capital of the country and gateway to the world, can indeed take pride as one of the most progressive states in country.

In the aftermath of the economic reforms programme initiated by the Government of India, phenomenal investment is taking place in various parts of the State. The Konkan Railway passing through the western hills of the State linking Mumbai to Mangalore in the south, has provided a very strong land link to west coast with other parts of the country. The coastal highway which is under execution with renewed vigour by the State Government will provide an alternate modern highway to the existing Mumbai-Goa National Highway.

Due to the spectacular increase in imports and exports to/from the country, rise in the manufacturing activity and impressive growth, in agricultural production, it is more than obvious that international trade of India which is almost totally dependent upon ports and shipping, will have a big boost in this decade.

There are 48 minor ports spread over a stretch of about 720 km long coast line of Maharashtra, many of which would provide sufficient draft to cater to the present day overseas and coastal trade. They can be dredged to desired depths for further development. These minor ports are administered under the provision of The Indian Port Act 1908. The Maharashtra Maritime Board, which has been constituted on 22nd November 1996, is responsible for development of port facilities and inland water transport system including coastal shipping.

The Maharashtra Maritime Board has planned to setup passenger water terminals at various places on the water front around the Island city. In addition, Ro-Ro terminals for the movement of cargo and passengers have also been planned.

The State’s water front has tremendous potential for development of ship building, ship repair and ship breaking activities. The State has identified certain sites like Arnala, Dighi in Rajpuri creek and the whole of Thane creek for the use of construction and repair of vessels. With the growth in the industrial activity on the Indian coast, the demand for the coastal vessels is bound to increase in the near future, giving boost to the ship construction activity in the area.

The State’s coastal region is endowed with creeks, rivers, beaches and water fronts that could be developed for tourism and water sports activities.

We would like to invite all those who have capability, interest, and innovation, to be a part of the train which is running on fast speed towards progress and prosperity in the 21st century. Let as reach the goal of building up rich India and strong India through the God - given gift three side water.

The state commits itself to help you in achieving this objective by way of getting speedy clearance from the concerned authorities as well as acquisitions of required land on fast track basis.

N. RAMARAO I. A. S.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER,
MAHARASHTRA MARITIME BOARD,
MUMBAI.