Bhubaneswar, Sept. 21 (UDN): Odisha is stepping up efforts to strengthen its maritime economy, with the state reviewing a series of major projects covering port connectivity, shipbuilding, container logistics, cruise tourism and coastal land management.
Pic Credit: x.com/SecyChief
The plans were discussed at the seventh meeting of the Odisha Maritime Board held at Lok Seva Bhavan on Saturday under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Anu Garg. The meeting also reviewed progress on decisions taken during the board’s previous session.
Maritime Board Set for Administrative Overhaul
As part of efforts to streamline the state’s maritime administration, the government is examining the proposed merger of the Directorate of Ports and Inland Water Transport with the Odisha Maritime Board.
The restructuring is aimed at creating a more integrated administrative system, improving operational coordination and strengthening manpower across maritime-related functions.
New Road Link Planned for Gopalpur Port
With cargo movement through Gopalpur Port increasing, the board reviewed a proposal for a four-lane greenfield road corridor of about 4.5 km connecting the port with National Highway-16 near Chhatrapur.
The project is expected to improve freight movement and ease connectivity between the port and the national highway network. Its implementation will require coordination among the National Highways Authority of India, the Odisha Works Department and the port operator.
Focus on Container and EXIM Infrastructure
The state is also planning to strengthen Dhamra and Gopalpur as major gateways for export-import trade.
The proposed infrastructure package includes dedicated container-handling facilities, multimodal logistics parks, container freight stations and customs-controlled bonded areas. The initiatives are intended to expand cargo-handling capacity and improve logistics support for industries using Odisha’s ports.
Mahakalapada Shipbuilding Cluster Under Review
Progress on the proposed shipbuilding cluster at Mahakalapada in Kendrapara district was another key issue discussed during the meeting.
The project is part of Odisha’s broader plan to develop dedicated coastal industrial infrastructure and tap the economic potential of its long shoreline.
Puri Cruise Terminal Gets Fresh Review
The proposed international cruise terminal near Puri was also reviewed as the state explores opportunities to expand coastal tourism and passenger shipping.
The project is being considered as part of efforts to diversify Odisha’s maritime economy beyond cargo and port operations.
GIS Mapping to Support Maritime Land Bank
The government is also undertaking GIS-based mapping of newly accreted land near existing ports and proposed maritime project areas.
The mapping exercise is expected to help create a dedicated maritime land reserve, enabling better planning and safeguarding land required for future port, industrial and logistics projects.
Multi-Department Coordination
The meeting brought together senior officials from several departments, reflecting the broad administrative requirements of Odisha’s maritime development strategy.
Additional Chief Secretary Hemant Sharma, Principal Secretaries Shubha Sharma, N.B.S. Rajput and Pabitra Mohan Samal, and Commissioner-cum-Secretary Balwant Singh were among the senior officials present.
Representatives from the Industries, Home, Information & Public Relations, Water Resources, Commerce & Transport, Tourism and Law departments also participated in the deliberations.
The government’s latest review signals a coordinated push to link port expansion with road connectivity, industrial development, logistics infrastructure and coastal tourism as part of Odisha’s wider maritime development agenda.