Phase-I of the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal in Gujarat, would be completed and open for public from September 2025, Union Minister of Ports Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said.

“While the entire project, which would be the largest maritime museum in the world, is expected to be completed by 2029, the Phase I would be open to people from September 2025,” the Minister said. international collaborations with more than 20 countries has been proposed for development of the complex.

These collaborations will bring in joint maritime research activities, preservation of maritime heritage, exchange of Information, Artefacts, technical know-how among other things. The Minster said that the project is anticipated to have a daily footfall of up to 25,000 and would create 22,000 employment opportunities. “At present, 65% physical progress for the phase 1A of the project has been achieved”.

The site has been nominated to be enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. “The highest quality ships were being built in India and as a result Indian ships were able to complete successful voyages across the world. And this has not only integrated the world community through trade and commerce but also through cultural exchanges and pilgrimages”.

The Union Cabinet in October this year gave its nod to the project, and also accorded in-principle approval for Phases 1B and 2 of the project, as per the master plan, by raising funds through voluntary resources or contributions.