Panaji: The Government of Goa, through the Captain of Ports Department, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HITES (HLL Infratech Services Ltd.), a Central Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, to strengthen and modernise the state’s maritime infrastructure.
HITES, a reputed PSU with expertise in disaster management, infrastructure resilience and technology-driven solutions, will support Goa in enhancing safety, sustainability and operational efficiency across ports and inland waterways.
The MoU focuses on making Goa’s maritime infrastructure disaster-resilient by adopting advanced and AI-based solutions for real-time monitoring, early risk detection and rapid emergency response. The initiative aims to ensure long-term structural safety, operational continuity and public safety, particularly in the face of climate-related challenges.
As part of the collaboration, disaster mitigation and rehabilitation works will be undertaken, including strengthening of jetties and waterfront infrastructure, upgrading search and rescue capabilities, induction of specialised disaster management boats, and enhancement of oil spill preparedness and response mechanisms. Scientific dredging of rivers and channels will be carried out to prevent flooding and improve water flow, along with construction of retaining walls and embankments to protect against erosion.
The project also includes the installation of AI-enabled surveillance and monitoring systems, public warning and alert mechanisms, early warning systems for cyclones, floods and tidal surges, and underground cabling to reduce vulnerability during extreme weather events. Development of cyclone shelters in vulnerable coastal and riverine areas and support to coastal road infrastructure for evacuation and emergency access are also part of the plan.
The initiative underlines the Government of Goa’s commitment to coastal development, maritime safety and climate-adaptive infrastructure. By leveraging advanced technology and AI-driven disaster-resilient solutions, the collaboration aims to safeguard lives, livelihoods and critical maritime and economic activities, while positioning Goa as a model coastal state aligned with national priorities and best practices.
