India and ADB sign $42 million loan agreement to strengthen coastal protection in Maharashtra

NEW DELHI : The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $42 million loan agreement aimed at strengthening coastal and riverbank protection measures in Maharashtra, enhancing the resilience of local communities and safeguarding critical natural ecosystems from the impacts of climate change.

The loan will support the Maharashtra Sustainable Climate-Resilient Coastal Protection and Management Project, which seeks to address growing challenges such as coastal erosion, flooding, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events affecting the state’s extensive coastline.

The agreement was signed by Smt. Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, on behalf of the Government of India, and Mio Oka, on behalf of ADB.

Under the project, a combination of engineering solutions and nature-based approaches will be deployed to combat coastal erosion. These include offshore reefs, rock protection structures, beach nourishment, and dune restoration measures designed to provide long-term coastal resilience while preserving natural habitats. Advanced technologies such as remote sensing satellite imagery and climate-risk forecasting tools will also be utilized to improve shoreline management and strengthen disaster preparedness.

The initiative is expected to deliver significant benefits to Maharashtra’s tourism and fisheries sectors, both of which are highly vulnerable to coastal degradation and extreme weather events. In addition, the project places strong emphasis on community participation, promoting the involvement of women, youth, and vulnerable groups in coastal zone management and disaster-risk reduction activities.

ADB will also support institutional capacity building through the strengthening of the Maharashtra Maritime Board, including the establishment of a dedicated coastal infrastructure management unit and specialized training programs in coastal planning, social inclusion, and sustainable livelihood development.

The project underscores India’s growing focus on climate-resilient infrastructure and sustainable coastal development, while reinforcing the long-standing partnership between India and ADB in supporting infrastructure, environmental protection, and community resilience initiatives across the country.