Mumbai: In a major boost to Maharashtra’s maritime infrastructure and green transportation initiatives, the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) and Zoya Marine Services Pvt. Ltd. signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to supply modern vessels for the Mumbai Water Metro project and establish an electric boat manufacturing facility in Sindhudurg district.
The agreement was signed at Mantralaya in the presence of Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Rane said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra is focusing on attracting significant investment in the maritime sector. He said the proposed electric boat manufacturing unit and the supply of advanced vessels for the Mumbai Water Metro would strengthen the state’s maritime economy, promote sustainable transport, and generate employment opportunities for local youth.
As part of the agreement, an advanced electric boat manufacturing plant will be developed at Talawane in Sawantwadi taluka of Sindhudurg district. The project will be set up on nearly 22 acres with an estimated investment of around ₹150 crore. It is expected to accelerate the adoption of green marine transportation while encouraging the use of modern shipbuilding technologies in Maharashtra.
The meeting also reviewed the implementation roadmap for both projects, covering investment plans, technical collaboration, skill development, employment generation, and future expansion of the maritime industry. Officials noted that the initiative would significantly enhance the state’s coastal infrastructure, support industrial development in coastal regions, and promote environmentally sustainable water transport.
The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary (Transport and Ports) Sanjay Sethi, senior officials of the Maharashtra Maritime Board, Zoya Marine Services Pvt. Ltd. Directors John Fernandes and Suraj Devadhiya, along with Ambar Ayande and Dr. Nilesh Banavalikar.
