Odisha’s extended coastline of 574.7 kilometers enhances its appeal as a prime investment destination
OdishaPlus Bureau
Odisha’s coastline has officially been extended by 96 kilometers. An updated report from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has revised the length of Odisha’s coastline from 476.4 kilometers to 574.7 kilometers. This change is attributed to new reference terms established by the National Marine Science Committee (NMSC) for calculating India’s maritime parameters. Using satellite imagery, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and remote sensing has enabled more accurate and detailed assessments of the coastline.
The revised terms of reference (ToR) now encompass smaller coastal features, including inlets, bays, and estuaries, which were often overlooked in previous measurements. This thorough methodology has led to the increased length of the coastline, as noted in the report. Furthermore, the ToR stipulates that updates and reviews should occur more frequently to accommodate natural alterations in the shoreline caused by erosion, accretion, and other geological activities. This approach ensures that the measurements more accurately represent the current condition of the coastline, according to sources.
Pratap Kumar Mohanty, a professor of marine science and Officer on Special Duty at Dharanidhar University in Keonjhar, stated that coastal erosion contributes to the formation of additional bay areas at river mouths. He noted that the Bahuda and Rushikulya rivers in the Ganjam district run parallel to the coastline due to the presence of a sand spit. This configuration of river mouths leads to the creation of bay areas and an extension of the coastal length.
Manoranjan Mishra, a geography professor at Fakir Mohan University in Balasore, remarked that the inlets, bays, and estuaries have not been included in the coastline calculations as per the 1970 Survey of India (SOI) report. He emphasized that incorporating these features would result in an increased measurement of the coastline.
Odisha’s strategic initiative to leverage its extensive coastline has gained significant recognition, enhancing its appeal as a prime investment destination, with an additional 96 kilometers available for development. The eastern state, which boasts one of the longest coastlines in India, has been actively advancing port development and infrastructure projects, according to official sources.
State authorities are actively engaged in the development of two new ports while concurrently advancing plans for a coastal highway project. This proposed highway aims to create essential connectivity between the northern and southern coastal areas of the state, which could significantly enhance the region’s maritime economy, according to official sources.
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