Through policy-driven port expansion and infrastructure upgrades and With over ₹18,000 crore in investments, Odisha state is boosting trade, connectivity, and employment
OdishaPlus Bureau
Odisha is making considerable progress in positioning itself as a prominent maritime hub, propelled by a forward-thinking, policy-driven strategy and strategic initiatives spearheaded by the Odisha Maritime Board under the auspices of the Commerce and Transport Department. The state government’s dedicated efforts to modernize and enhance key ports are nurturing strong port-linked economic ecosystems.
Odisha’s maritime trade and logistics capabilities have experienced a significant enhancement both on a domestic and international scale. Cargo handling capacities at non-major ports have reached 80 Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA), with Dhamra Port managing 46.08 MTPA and Gopalpur Port 6 MTPA in FY 2024–25. This expansion has resulted in a considerable revenue of ₹306.15 crore for the state during the same fiscal year.
In the meantime, Paradip Port Authority, the state’s sole major port, continues to excel nationally, reaffirming its status as India’s largest cargo-handling major port by overseeing 150.41 MTPA in FY 2024–25.
The implementation of sophisticated port technologies and the construction of deeper berths are creating new opportunities for trade, industry, and regional integration. On the global stage, improved connectivity via Dhamra and Gopalpur ports has established Odisha as a crucial hub in international trade networks, enhancing export-import efficiency and access to markets.
On the domestic front, improved coastal shipping routes and feeder services are providing uninterrupted connectivity to industrial and agricultural hinterlands . Demonstrating its dedication to industrial growth, Odisha has entered into a concession agreement with JSW Utkal Steel Ltd. to construct a captive jetty for its integrated steel plant. This initiative is expected to draw an investment of ₹2,104 crore and create job opportunities for approximately 3,450 individuals.
Furthermore, the concession agreement with Gopalpur Ports Ltd. has been updated to indicate a 95% transfer of equity shares to Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone (SEZ), facilitating an investment of ₹16,554 crore and generating around 5,000 jobs (both direct and indirect). These advancements strengthen the state’s objective of utilizing its coastline for comprehensive and strategic economic development.
Odisha’s maritime vision is characterized by an emphasis on sustainability, integrated logistics, and multi-modal connectivity, while also prioritizing safety and the development of the workforce. The state is committing resources to infrastructure improvements to guarantee operational efficiency and the long-term sustainability of its ports.
In response to the increasing need for skilled maritime professionals, ship operation simulators have been implemented at the Crew Training Institute in Chandbali and the Odisha Maritime Academy, providing realistic training opportunities. Additionally, to improve safety in inland water transport, the Directorate of Ports and Inland Water Transport (IWT) has provided nearly 35,000 life-saving devices, such as lifebuoys, life jackets, and fire extinguishers, to boat owners at a 95% subsidy.
Odisha’s maritime policy is facilitating the creation of new opportunities for trade, manufacturing, and employment, thereby addressing regional inequalities and incorporating ambitious coastal districts into the state’s overall growth narrative.
With a well-defined vision, robust policy guidance, and inclusive, forward-looking infrastructure, Odisha is progressively establishing itself as a significant maritime center — all by the broader goal of realizing ‘Viksit Odisha by 2036’ and aiding in the achievement of ‘Viksit Bharat by 2047.’