(a) whether the Government has planned to dredge the channels of Gujarat ports;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the estimated cost of the project and the funds allocated for the purpose;
(d) the time by which the project is likely to be completed; and
(e) the benefits likely to be accrued to Gujarat as a result of implementation of Maritime policy?
MINISTER OF SHIPPING, ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS (SHRI T.R. BAALU)
(a) to (d): The responsibility for the development (including dredging etc.) of the Major Ports vests with the
Central Government. State Governments have overall jurisdiction over Non-Major Ports and are responsible for their
development. Kandla Port which is the only major port in the State of Gujarat, has undertaken dredging of its
navigational channel to increase the draft to 12.5 meters with an investment of approximately Rs.35 crores by 2007-08.
The Port plans to dredge its navigational channel to increase the draft to 14 meters subsequently.
(e): The broad aim of the Maritime Policy is to facilitate holistic development of the maritime sector
through creation of requisite infrastructure. The investment flow for the purpose will facilitate economic growth
and create additional employment opportunities including in the State of Gujarat.