The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has announced significant progress on the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) being built at Lothal in Gujarat. Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, chaired the second meeting of the NMHC Society’s Governing Council to review construction and international collaboration efforts. The project aims to establish Lothal as a centre for maritime heritage, education and tourism, drawing on India’s seafaring history spanning over five thousand years.
Construction progress and international partnerships
Phase 1A of the complex has reached 82 percent physical completion, with a revised target date of 31 October 2026 for finishing this stage. The project has secured statutory registrations including income tax exemption and CSR registration to strengthen its institutional capacity.
Thirteen countries have already signed memoranda of understanding for collaboration: Portugal, the UAE, Vietnam, Thailand, the Netherlands, Denmark, Oman, Israel, Germany, the Republic of Korea, Italy, New Zealand and Singapore. Discussions are underway with additional nations, with plans to eventually involve 35 or more countries. These partnerships will enable the exchange of artefacts, ship models, replicas and research collaboration.
The complex has 1,492 artefacts ready for installation. Remaining work includes completion of Galleries 4 and 6, Lothal Town and Aquatic Theming components.
Beyond Phase 1A, the Council reviewed plans for Phase 1B and Phase 2, which will include additional galleries, a 5D Dome Theatre, a Coastal States Pavilion, a Lighthouse Museum planned with the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships, and a Maritime Research Institute being developed with the Indian Maritime University. A Museotel and an Eco Resort are also planned. The proposed Lighthouse Museum is intended to become the world’s tallest.
Archaeological excavation at Lothal has reached 70 percent completion, being conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India. The Dholera Expressway has been completed, and planning for a high-speed rail corridor is finalised.
What this means for you
When completed, Lothal will become a major heritage tourism destination showcasing India’s ancient maritime culture. If you are interested in history, archaeology or maritime heritage, the complex will offer exhibitions, research facilities and educational programmes. The project’s international collaborations mean exhibits and knowledge from partner nations will also feature, making it a global cultural exchange hub rather than a purely domestic museum.