Is the Odisha government really prioritizing port and jetty projects for maritime trade growth?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasizes the vital need for enhancing maritime commerce through substantial investments in ports and jetties. With significant job creation on the horizon, these initiatives could redefine the state's economic landscape and strengthen its coastal trade capabilities.
Key Takeaways
- Investment of over Rs 18,654 crore in maritime infrastructure.
- Create approximately 8,450 jobs in the region.
- Expansion of Gopalpur Port to enhance cargo capacity to 50 MMT.
- Development of a new jetty with a capacity of 52 MMT.
- Focus on Public Private Partnerships for maritime trade growth.
Bhubaneswar, June 26 (NationPress) Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi declared on Thursday that his administration is placing a high priority on enhancing maritime commerce in Odisha by developing ports, jetties, and vital infrastructure throughout various regions of the state.
In a significant move to fortify Odisha's maritime infrastructure and foster port-driven economic growth, the Odisha government signed two Concession Agreements on Thursday—one for the enhancement of Gopalpur Port and another for establishing a captive jetty at the Jatadhari river mouth in Jagatsinghpur district, in the presence of Chief Minister Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan.
The Odisha government entered into a concession agreement with JSW Utkal Steel Limited to create a captive jetty at the Jatadhari river mouth in Erasama tehsil of Jagatsinghpur district, involving an investment of Rs 2,100 crore. This jetty will boast a cargo handling capacity of 52 million metric tonnes (MMT).
It is anticipated to create 3,450 direct and indirect job opportunities. Likewise, Gopalpur Ports Limited will invest Rs 16,554 crore in the expansion and modernization of Gopalpur Port. Following the expansion, the port's cargo handling capacity is expected to rise to 50 MMT. This project is projected to generate nearly 5,000 direct and indirect jobs.
“Together, these two initiatives will inject more than Rs 18,654 crore into the state and create approximately 8,450 jobs. Expanding maritime trade is a primary focus for our government, and we are dedicated to developing jetties and ports along the coastline to enhance Odisha's economic prospects,” the Chief Minister stated.
He also revealed plans for establishing new ports at Inchudi and Bahuda, along with development strategies for Subarnarekha and Astaranga ports.
Majhi emphasized that the Odisha government seeks to collaborate with private enterprises in a Public Private Partnership (PPP) framework to cultivate maritime trade along Odisha’s extensive coastline.
Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena highlighted the pivotal role of jetties and ports in Odisha's comprehensive development.
“Our government is devoted to pinpointing potential coastal sites and developing ports, fish landing centers, and coastal infrastructure,” he remarked.
Point of View
The Odisha government's commitment to boosting maritime commerce through infrastructure development is commendable. The focus on public-private partnerships and job creation highlights a proactive approach to economic growth. As Odisha positions itself as a maritime hub, the success of these projects will be closely observed and could serve as a model for other states.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key maritime projects initiated by the Odisha government?
The Odisha government has initiated two major projects: the expansion of Gopalpur Port and the construction of a captive jetty at the Jatadhari river mouth, which involves a combined investment of over Rs 18,654 crore.
How many jobs will these projects create?
The projects are expected to create approximately 8,450 direct and indirect jobs, significantly contributing to local employment.
What is the cargo handling capacity of the new jetty?
The new jetty at the Jatadhari river mouth will have a cargo handling capacity of 52 million metric tonnes (MMT).
What is the role of private companies in this initiative?
The Odisha government plans to engage private companies in a Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode to facilitate the development of maritime trade along the coastline.
What future plans does the Odisha government have for maritime infrastructure?
The government aims to establish new ports at Inchudi and Bahuda and has development plans for Subarnarekha and Astaranga ports.
