The Gujarat Government decided to develop a network of ferry services around the Gulf of Cambay with the objective of helping to draw together the people around this vast gulf. Both passenger and Ro-Ro ferry terminals were needed at four locations. Three of these were at entirely new port sites, and two were at developing harbours.

Beckett Rankine co-ordinated the project with design of berths, breakwaters, linkspans, and dredging, together with shore terminal facilities for freight and passengers. An assessment of possible ferry routes, economic analysis, and advice on operator selection was also provided.

The Gulf of Cambay is exposed to severe marine conditions, with the upper reaches experiencing some of the highest tides in the world and some very strong current flows. The terminals at Dahej and Gogha have a tidal range of 12 metres, while Pipavav and Suvali are more exposed to waves.