100% Utilization of Sagarmala Funds Possible with Timely Environmental Clearances – Ports Development Minister Nitesh Rane

New Delhi : Maharashtra’s port projects, both existing and upcoming along the state’s coastline, can fully utilize the Sagarmala project funds if environmental clearances from the central government are granted in a timely manner, stated State Ports Development Minister Nitesh Rane today.

Speaking at the National Sagarmala High-Level Committee meeting held at Vigyan Bhavan, Rane highlighted the issue of delays in environmental clearances, which hinder the optimal use of allocated funds. The meeting was attended by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, along with ports development ministers and senior officials from various states.

During the meeting, Rane pointed out that while the environmental clearance process is essential, delays from the central government have resulted in unutilized funds, slowing down project implementation. He urged that expediting these approvals would significantly accelerate port development.

Currently, 24 ports in Maharashtra have been identified under the Sagarmala project. Among these, eight ports are awaiting project approval, with ₹350 crore in pending funds from the central government. Rane emphasized that the prompt release of these funds would boost the state’s port development efforts.

Additionally, the Vadhavan Port, a key joint project between the central and state governments, is expected to create substantial employment opportunities upon completion. Maharashtra holds a 26% stake in the Vadhavan Port project. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has been consistently following up with the central government to ensure its progress, Rane informed the meeting.