LOTHAL: The National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, Gujarat, is nearing completion, with nearly 75 percent of the first phase finished, aiming to celebrate and revive India’s 4,500-year-old maritime heritage. This ambitious project seeks to honor India’s ancient seafaring traditions and is seen as a significant step in promoting maritime education and global industry collaboration.
According to Emirates News Agency, Sarbananda Sonowal, India’s Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, emphasized the importance of the Heritage Complex during his recent site inspection. He highlighted the project’s role in fostering connections between India’s maritime community and the global industry, as well as its educational potential. Sonowal stated that the complex is crucial for resurrecting India’s ancient maritime history, which dates back over 45 centuries.
Lothal, historically significant as the site of the world’s oldest known artificial dock, was a thriving trading city during the Indus Valley Civilization, with commerce extending as far as Egypt around 2400 BCE. The archaeological significance of Lothal has led to its nomination for UNESCO World Heritage Site status, emphasizing its historical and cultural value.