Archive · 26 Aug 2026
Maharashtra’s Sagarmala Projects Gain Support, Gateway Fees Face Review
Maharashtra wants to build and improve more ports and waterways.
It has asked the central government to support these plans through Sagarmala 2.0.
The central government has responded positively to the proposals.
Maharashtra also wants to reduce or change a passenger fee at a Mumbai ferry jetty.
The fee is currently Rs 92.04 per passenger.
Ferry operators and passengers say this adds to travel costs.
A review could make trips to places such as Elephanta and Mandwa cheaper.
The projects may also improve transport, tourism and jobs along Maharashtra’s coast.
The Centre has responded positively to Maharashtra’s proposals under the Sagarmala 2.0 programme.
Maharashtra seeks priority approval and maximum sanctions for eligible port and maritime projects.
The state has requested a review of the Rs 92.04 passenger charge at Gateway of India’s Jetty No. 5.
The fee review could make ferry travel to Elephanta and Mandwa more affordable.
Officials expect improved connectivity, coastal tourism, employment and port-led economic development.
- Who
- Maharashtra Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane met Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal to raise the state’s maritime issues.
- What
- The Centre responded positively to Maharashtra’s Sagarmala 2.0 project proposals and agreed to consider reviewing passenger charges at Jetty No. 5.
- When
- The proposals were raised during Nitesh Rane’s meeting with Sarbananda Sonowal in New Delhi; no meeting date is specified.
- Where
- The projects concern Maharashtra’s ports, coastline and waterways, while the fee issue concerns Jetty No. 5 at the Gateway of India in Mumbai.
- Why
- The state wants to improve maritime connectivity, support coastal tourism and communities, make ferry travel more affordable, generate employment and strengthen local economies.
- Programme
- Sagarmala 2.0
- State agency
- Maharashtra Maritime Board
- Current passenger charge
- Rs 92.04 per passenger
- Fee location
- Jetty No. 5, Gateway of India, Mumbai
- Ferry destinations
- Elephanta and Mandwa
- Proposed focus
- Port-led development, multimodal connectivity, coastal and inland waterways, and maritime tourism
- Expected benefits
- Improved connectivity, more affordable water transport, employment and coastal economic development