The Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) has initiated a transformative project to revamp Bhaucha Dhakka in Mazgaon, converting it into a cutting-edge fish terminal. The foundation stone for this ambitious undertaking was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the prestigious Maritime India Summit 2023, as announced by Adesh Titarmare, Deputy Chairman of MbPA.
Originally constructed in 1979 with a capacity for 300 boats, Bhaucha Dhakka is now set to undergo a substantial expansion, aimed at accommodating approximately 1,500 boats. This expansion aligns with the MbPA’s commitment to providing improved facilities for fishermen, addressing concerns about livelihoods often associated with coastal infrastructure projects in Mumbai.
Deputy Chief Engineer Ashok Sonkusle, MbPA, highlighted the significance of the project, stating that the upgraded jetty will feature an approach road, enabling direct loading of fish onto trucks. This innovation replaces the time-consuming practice of using handcart pullers, ultimately benefiting fishermen by allowing quicker loading and ensuring better value for their perishable catch.
Under the Union government’s Sagarmala program, focusing on maritime sector infrastructure development, the Bhaucha Dhakka revamp is estimated to cost approximately Rs 102 crore and is slated for completion within two years. The project addresses the challenges of congestion and limited parking space for nearly 1,300 fishermen boats, providing a solution through the separation of passenger and fishermen boat traffic.
Furthermore, the project aligns with the MbPA’s broader vision, as they concurrently work on the construction of an International Cruise Terminal. Expected to attract foreign tourists upon completion, the terminal adds a tourism dimension to the initiative, showcasing the multifaceted impact of the Bhaucha Dhakka project beyond its immediate benefits for the fishing community.
This holistic approach not only improves infrastructure for fishermen but also positions Mumbai as a more attractive destination for international visitors, bolstering both the local economy and the city’s standing in the maritime sector.
