Report: Stakeholder Consultation on Coastal Shipping Convened by GMB
Gandhinagar, January 18, 2025: The Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) organized a pivotal stakeholder consultation workshop focused on the future of coastal shipping in India. Held in Ahmedabad, the event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, port authorities, and logistics experts to deliberate on opportunities, challenges, and strategies for boosting coastal shipping as a cost-effective and sustainable mode of transportation.
The workshop was part of GMB’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Gujarat’s position as a leading maritime hub in the country. With India’s expanding coastline of over 7,500 kilometers and its vast maritime potential, the event served as a critical platform for aligning stakeholders on policies and plans to enhance coastal shipping infrastructure and operations.
Focus Areas of the Workshop
The workshop revolved around key themes such as infrastructure development, digital integration, regulatory reforms, and sustainable practices in coastal shipping.
1. Infrastructure and Port Modernization
Stakeholders highlighted the need for enhanced port infrastructure to accommodate increasing cargo volumes. Gujarat, home to several major and minor ports, was identified as a critical gateway for coastal trade. Discussions centered on the modernization of existing ports, creation of dedicated coastal berths, and seamless connectivity with hinterland markets.
GMB officials emphasized the progress made under the Sagarmala project, a flagship initiative of the Indian government aimed at port-led development. “Gujarat’s strategic location and robust port infrastructure place us in a unique position to drive the growth of coastal shipping. This workshop is a step toward identifying the gaps and building a roadmap for the future,” said a senior GMB official.
2. Digital Integration
The integration of digital technologies emerged as a major talking point. Participants discussed the adoption of advanced digital platforms for real-time cargo tracking, improved supply chain visibility, and reducing paperwork.
Industry experts stressed the need for digital tools to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. “Digital transformation is key to unlocking the full potential of coastal shipping. We need systems that enable transparency, reduce turnaround time, and promote seamless coordination among stakeholders,” said a representative from a leading logistics company.
3. Policy and Regulatory Reforms
Several participants raised concerns about the regulatory hurdles impeding the growth of coastal shipping. Issues such as cumbersome customs procedures, lack of uniform policies across states, and high logistics costs were identified as barriers to growth.
The workshop saw active discussions on policy frameworks that could incentivize coastal shipping, such as tax benefits, subsidies for fuel, and reduced port tariffs. Participants also recommended a single-window clearance system to simplify regulatory processes.
4. Sustainable Shipping Practices
The workshop underscored the importance of adopting environmentally sustainable practices. With growing concerns about the carbon footprint of the shipping industry, stakeholders called for the use of greener technologies, such as LNG-powered vessels and renewable energy for port operations.
“Coastal shipping is inherently more sustainable than road or rail transport. By promoting eco-friendly practices, we can make this mode of transport even more beneficial for the environment,” said an environmental consultant at the event.
Gujarat’s Role in Coastal Shipping
Gujarat has consistently been at the forefront of India’s maritime activities, contributing significantly to the country’s trade and economic growth. With 48 operational ports, including major ports like Kandla and Mundra, the state handles a substantial share of India’s cargo traffic.
GMB officials noted that Gujarat’s ports are well-positioned to play a pivotal role in advancing coastal shipping. The board has been actively promoting public-private partnerships (PPPs) to attract investment in port development and logistics infrastructure.
Additionally, Gujarat’s robust industrial base and proximity to key domestic and international markets make it a prime location for enhancing coastal connectivity.
Voices from the Workshop
The workshop included presentations and panel discussions featuring prominent industry leaders and policymakers. A senior official from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways lauded Gujarat’s proactive approach and urged stakeholders to collaborate in achieving the government’s vision of reducing logistics costs through coastal shipping.
“We are committed to creating a conducive ecosystem for coastal shipping. This workshop is an excellent initiative to bring together all stakeholders to work toward common goals,” the official remarked.
Participants also shared success stories from other countries, providing valuable insights into best practices that could be adopted in India.
Outcome and Recommendations
The workshop concluded with a set of actionable recommendations to boost coastal shipping in Gujarat and across India. These included:
- Prioritizing the development of coastal economic zones to promote regional trade.
- Establishing dedicated coastal cargo terminals and improving last-mile connectivity.
- Expanding skill development programs for workforce training in maritime operations.
- Encouraging investments in modern, fuel-efficient vessels.
- Implementing policies to integrate coastal shipping with multimodal transportation networks.
The GMB pledged to consolidate the insights gathered during the workshop into a comprehensive report, which will serve as a blueprint for future initiatives.
Conclusion
The stakeholder consultation workshop hosted by the Gujarat Maritime Board marked an important step in shaping the future of coastal shipping in India. By addressing critical issues such as infrastructure, digitalization, and sustainability, the event highlighted Gujarat’s pivotal role in enhancing maritime trade. With a clear focus on collaboration and innovation, coastal shipping holds immense potential to revolutionize India’s logistics sector and support economic growth.
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