Panaji: As part of the ‘PM Gati Shakti’ – the mega infrastructure project aimed at boosting multimodal connectivity, several key projects for the development of Goa’s inland waterways and marine sector have been launched.Goa has been one of the major hubs for tourists in India.Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways also laid the foundation for the development of international and domestic cruise terminals with an investment of Rs 122.72 crore. The upcoming cruise terminal will be fully equipped with facilities like immigration counters, baggage facilities, commercial complex, restaurant, parking etc spread over an area of 13.40 acres, an official statement said.The infrastructure of New Mangalore Port is also being upgraded with solid waste management facilities and construction of a truck terminal near customs house among other things.”The projects that we have unveiled here today are the true reflection of the vision of New India,” the minister who is also in charge of the Ministry of Ayush said.The projects will directly lead to opportunities of direct employment for more than 3,000 people, Goa’s Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who was also present on the occasion saidSawant added that under the ‘PM Gati Shakti’ Goa will emerge as a hub for road, port and airport connectivity.Last month, the Narendra Modi government also approved the National Logistics Policy to address issues hindering the transport sector and thereby boosting economic activities by reducing costs. The move is aimed at creating an interdisciplinary, cross sectoral, resilient and sustainable logistics sector.The sector is currently fragmented and dominated by unorganised players. However, the policy could encourage more organised players to make a foray.
