Sonowal sets July 2026 deadline for Lothal Maritime Heritage Complex Phase 1
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on 6 May 2025 reviewed the progress of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, Gujarat, and set July 2026 as the deadline for completing Phase 1A of the ambitious project. The review, held in New Delhi, directed officials to accelerate work on critical finishing components to meet the stipulated timeline.
What Phase 1A Includes
The first phase of the NMHC encompasses six museum galleries, the Lothal township, aquatic theming, common area theming, a jetty walkway, and the display of Indian Navy artefacts. Sonowal directed officials to ensure timely completion of panels, mural work, ceiling fabrication, and flooring — elements considered critical to operationalising the complex by the July 2026 target.
Global Partnerships and MoUs
India has already signed 10 MoUs with the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, South Korea, UAE, Portugal, Vietnam, Oman, Israel, and Thailand to develop the NMHC as a global centre of maritime history. Four more countries — Italy, France, Myanmar, and Cambodia — are reportedly in the pipeline to formalise collaboration agreements. The minister stressed the need for deeper engagement with neighbouring and maritime nations, including ASEAN members, to highlight shared oceanic heritage and historical linkages with India.
Sonowal stated:
