Odisha Maritime Board reviews port infrastructure, shipbuilding, inland waterways, cargo movement and cruise tourism to strengthen the state’s maritime economy
OdishaPlus Bureau
The Odisha Maritime Board has called for coordinated efforts to accelerate the development of the state’s maritime economy, with a focus on port infrastructure, shipbuilding, cargo movement, inland waterways and cruise tourism.
The issue came up for discussion at a high-level meeting of the Board chaired by Chief Secretary Anu Garg on Saturday, where the progress of key maritime projects and initiatives was reviewed.
The meeting examined several areas, including the expansion of port infrastructure, development of inland waterway connectivity, port development and strengthening of human resources within the Maritime Board.
Odisha has been expanding its maritime infrastructure with the objective of increasing cargo-handling capacity, improving connectivity and encouraging greater use of waterways for freight transportation. With its extensive coastline and network of rivers, the state has considerable scope for expanding coastal shipping and inland water transport.
The Board also reviewed initiatives for developing ports and associated infrastructure, with an emphasis on improving operational efficiency and strengthening connectivity between ports, industrial clusters and logistics networks.
Better integration of ports and waterways is expected to facilitate the movement of bulk and industrial cargo while providing exporters and businesses with additional logistics options.
Shipbuilding and cruise tourism also formed part of the broader review, as the state seeks to diversify its maritime economy beyond conventional port operations.
The meeting also stressed the need for coordinated action among different agencies and stakeholders to ensure the timely implementation of maritime projects.
The review is part of Odisha’s broader efforts to build an integrated maritime ecosystem, strengthen transport infrastructure and create the capacity needed to support the state’s future trade, logistics and industrial growth.