New Delhi, August 26: Nitesh Rane, Maharashtra’s Minister for Fisheries and Port Development, met with Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in New Delhi on Tuesday. The discussion focused on infrastructure development projects related to the maritime and port sectors in Maharashtra.
Rane highlighted that the Maharashtra Maritime Board has proposed several significant projects under the Sagarmala 2.0 program. These initiatives aim to promote port-based development, enhance multimodal connectivity, expand coastal and inland waterways, encourage maritime tourism, and accelerate the social and economic development of coastal communities.
During the meeting, Rane urged the Union Minister to prioritize and expedite the approval of these practical and development-oriented projects to boost maritime infrastructure development in the state.
Additionally, Rane raised concerns regarding the fee of ₹92.04 charged per passenger at Jetty No. 5 near the Gateway of India. He argued that the current fee imposes an extra financial burden on ferry operators and passengers. A reduction in this fee would promote maritime traffic and provide relief to travelers.
According to Rane, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal responded positively to both requests and assured necessary action. With coordination between the central and state governments, projects related to ports, waterways, and maritime tourism in Maharashtra are expected to gain new momentum, benefiting the state’s economy and coastal areas.
This meeting took place in New Delhi. Following this, Rane also met with Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, who oversees education, consumer affairs, food and public distribution, and new and renewable energy.
Furthermore, Rane, along with his brother Nilesh Rane and father Narayan Rane, met with Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri at the Duty Building in New Delhi. They discussed providing diesel to mechanical trawlers and fishermen’s cooperatives at current retail prices.
Rane noted that the disparity in diesel prices affects fishermen’s fishing operations and income. He requested the Union Minister’s intervention to ensure adequate financial relief for fishermen. This decision will provide relief to Maharashtra’s fishing community and significantly enhance the economic viability and sustainability of marine fisheries.
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