Prime Minister conducted a high-level assessment across Dholera and Lothal, reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to developing smart industrial corridors and sustainable maritime heritage hubs. The visit underlined a strategic vision to position Gujarat as a leading hub for green industrialisation, logistics, and knowledge-driven tourism.At the heart of the site visit was the under-construction Ahmedabad–Dholera Greenfield Expressway, a key component of India’s industrial freight network, being developed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
Officials highlighted that once completed, the expressway would reduce travel time between Ahmedabad and Dholera to just 45 minutes. The Principal Secretary stressed the importance of timely execution with internationally benchmarked engineering standards to facilitate seamless regional integration.A critical aspect of the review was the Dholera International Airport, designed to handle cargo and passenger traffic for the upcoming Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR). With cargo operations expected to begin by October 2025, the airport is integral to supporting the region’s positioning as a future-ready logistics and manufacturing hub. Emphasis was placed on aligning air, rail, and road connectivity to create an efficient supply chain backbone for domestic and export-oriented industries.
The review also included the Tata Electronics’ semiconductor fabrication plant in Dholera, a cornerstone of India’s semiconductor mission. The unit is poised to manufacture chips used in mobile devices, consumer electronics, and automotive applications, positioning Dholera as a global node in chip production. The Principal Secretary visited adjoining urban infrastructure projects—including educational institutions, hospitals, and housing—developed by Dholera Industrial City Development Limited (DICDL), calling for enhanced user-centric design and community participation.
A strategic review meeting followed, involving top officials from NHAI, Airports Authority of India, Indian Railways, and other key agencies, where ongoing projects such as the Bhimnath–Dholera Freight Rail Link and the Ahmedabad–Dholera Semi-High-Speed Rail Line were reviewed. The Principal Secretary reiterated the need for skilled workforce development and integrated planning to ensure Dholera’s emergence as a global-standard industrial city.
At Lothal, the Principal Secretary assessed progress on the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC), a flagship cultural and educational initiative under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The complex aims to celebrate India’s ancient maritime legacy, from the Harappan era to modern times. In the review meeting with senior ministry and archaeology officials, he emphasised research-based curation, environmental sustainability, and international academic collaboration.Particular focus was placed on the completion of Phase I-A, which includes six major galleries. He directed that this phase be ready by August 2025. Environmental sustainability measures—such as native species plantation and advanced water management systems—were also reviewed to ensure the complex aligns with India’s green development goals.
The review demonstrates a cohesive push towards integrating industrial expansion with sustainable infrastructure, historic preservation, and inclusive urban planning. With clear directives for adherence to timelines, quality standards, and stakeholder engagement, the Centre’s approach underscores a long-term commitment to economic resilience rooted in environmental and cultural consciousness.
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