Lothal Maritime Heritage Complex Phase 1A Crosses 82 Per Cent

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal chaired the 2nd Governing Council meeting of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) Society on 11 September 2026. The Council reviewed the project coming up at Lothal in Gujarat. The complex is meant to revive and display India's maritime legacy of over five millennia. The Council had first met in June 2025.

Where construction stands

The Council was told that Phase 1A has reached about 82 per cent physical completion. The revised target for finishing it is 31 October 2026. Galleries 4 and 6, Lothal Town and the Aquatic Theming are the components still to be completed. The Minister asked the implementing agencies to keep strict supervision so the target is met. He also pointed to 1,492 artefacts already made ready for installation and asked for quick approvals so the exhibits can open to visitors on time.

Thirteen nations on board

What comes in the later phases

Phase 1B and Phase 2 were also reviewed. They will add further galleries and a 5D Dome Theatre. A Coastal States Pavilion is planned. A Lighthouse Museum is planned with the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships, and the Minister said it has the potential to become the world's tallest lighthouse museum. A Maritime Research Institute is being developed with the Indian Maritime University. A Museotel and an Eco Resort are also planned.

Roads, rail and the dig

The Council noted progress on infrastructure outside the complex. The Dholera Expressway is complete. The plan for the high-speed rail corridor has been finalised. Excavation at Lothal by the Archaeological Survey of India is now 70 per cent done. The Government of Gujarat continues to support connectivity, power, water and visitor amenities. The Council also approved the proposed NMHC bye-laws, which give the Society a governance framework as it becomes a fully working institution. The Society has completed key statutory registrations, including income tax exemption, CSR and Darpan registrations, which strengthens its ability to raise resources. Sonowal called the partnerships a powerful instrument of maritime diplomacy.