Focus on Accelerating Development Works in Fisheries and Ports Department: Minister Nitesh Rane

Mumbai, June 2026 : Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane emphasized the need to expedite development works related to the Fisheries and Ports Department during a review meeting held at Mantralaya on Tuesday.

The meeting reviewed the progress of various projects, policies and infrastructure initiatives undertaken by the department across the state.

Detailed discussions were held on several key proposals, including leasing out the Shivnibandh Fish Seed Centre, the proposed project under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund at Morshi in Amravati district, and granting an extension to contractor Plutus Services for releasing fish seed into the Ujani Dam.

The meeting also deliberated on the proposal to lease the Government Fish Seed Production Centre at Dhom in Wai taluka of Satara district to VRP Fishery Private Limited for operation and management.

A review was conducted of measures being implemented to improve indicators related to the Fisheries Department under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Officials also presented updates on post-MoU actions concerning Sassoon Dock, the progress of the Marol Fishermen’s Market development project, and initiatives to provide hand gloves and gumboots to women engaged in fishing activities.

Information was also presented regarding actions taken under the Maharashtra Maritime Board (Regulation of Display of Advertisements) Regulations, 2026, as well as regulations related to leasing stalls and land.

The meeting further discussed the current status of appointing a Project Management Consultant (PMC) for the Mumbai Water Metro project. Deliberations were also held on improving facilities at passenger jetties across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region on the lines of the Versova Jetty model.

Other important subjects included the proposed shipyard projects at Vijaydurg and Jaigad, the implementation of an online ticketing system for passenger water transport services in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, and the proposed “Land Management and Waterfront Use Policy.”

Minister Rane conducted a detailed review of all agenda items and assessed the present status of ongoing works. He instructed officials to accelerate necessary actions to ensure that pending projects are completed within stipulated timelines.

He also directed the concerned authorities to expedite the implementation of various development projects and ensure timely execution to strengthen fisheries infrastructure and maritime facilities in the state.

The meeting was attended by Maharashtra Maritime Board Chief Executive Officer P. Pradeep, Maharashtra Fisheries Development Corporation Managing Director Prakash Khaple, along with other senior officials of the department.

The review reflects the state government’s focus on strengthening the fisheries and ports sector through improved infrastructure, policy support and efficient project implementation, aimed at boosting economic opportunities for fishermen and enhancing maritime development in Maharashtra.