Maharashtra’s government has asked officials to prepare a detailed action plan to build what could become the largest shipyard in India, taking advantage of the state’s 720-km coastline and growing maritime activity. The Chief Minister directed that a detailed project report (DPR) be readied soon and a suitable site be finalised for the shipyard. This step connects with the under construction Vadhavan port in Palghar, which is planned as a deep sea port to expand cargo capacity and maritime trade.
At a Ports Development Department review meeting, the Chief Minister highlighted the need to use coastal potential to boost the maritime industry. He noted that the proposed Vaibhavwadi–Kolhapur railway line will support expansion at ports such as Angre, Redi and Vijaydurg and improve logistics. He also underlined that the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation is building a highway linking Vadhavan port to Nashik, and planners must shape the surrounding areas with development in mind.
Officials were told to consider forming a joint company between the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) and the Ports Department to promote industrial growth in port regions. There was also a call to set up a special planning authority for integrated development of major ports and nearby areas, given the scale of upcoming port projects.
In the same review, plans for the Mumbai Water Metro project were discussed. The Chief Minister stressed that water boats should initially use hybrid propulsion and eventually be fully electric. The planned network envisions around 21 terminals and a roughly 200 nautical mile route to improve water transport options in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, where millions of passengers use water transport every year.
Maharashtra has also been active on policy and investment fronts this year. The state government approved the Shipbuilding, Ship Repair and Ship Recycling Facility Development Policy to attract infrastructure and foreign exchange. Authorities have signed multiple MoUs worth tens of thousands of crore INR to expand ports, shipbuilding clusters and coastal infrastructure, aligning with broader blue economy goals.
The proposed shipyard plan builds on Maharashtra’s long term focus on maritime growth, which includes boosting trade through new ports, improving connectivity by rail and road, and enhancing water transport services. If carried out effectively, this infrastructure push could make the state a leading centre for shipbuilding and related industries.
