During the upcoming India Maritime Week in Mumbai, the Odisha government plans to sign a Memorandum of Understanding for a cruise terminal in Puri. P L Haranadh, chairman of the Paradip Port Authority, noted that this initiative will expand to Paradip in the next two to three years, enhancing maritime development.
Odisha is set to spotlight its maritime and green energy initiatives at the India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025 in Mumbai, from October 27 to 31. Key highlights include the introduction of the Odisha Inland Vessel Rules, 2025, aimed at enhancing inland water transport and promoting maritime governance across the state.
Bhubaneswar’s Balijatra, Odisha’s historic maritime festival, will debut at the British Parliament on November 14, organized by the Odisha Society of the United Kingdom. The event features a two-day program themed “Ancient Maritime Glory to Sustainable Futures,” celebrating Odia culture, music, and traditions while fostering international dialogue on heritage.
Odisha is poised to be the first among India’s nine coastal states to implement a Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) framework, bolstering its blue economy. Following successful launches in Puducherry and Lakshadweep, this initiative aims to optimize Odisha’s 575-km coastline for sustainable trade, tourism, and fisheries while promoting long-term economic growth.
Odisha is poised to boost its port-led industrialization strategy, targeting investments of around Rs 1 lakh crore under the Purvodaya vision. Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain announced this during a Paradip Port roadshow, emphasizing the state’s strategic coastline and plans for new ports and maritime hubs to enhance trade capacity.
On World Maritime Day, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi celebrated the state’s rich maritime heritage and the bravery of Sadhab Pua, who helped carry Odisha’s glory across the seas. He emphasized the strategic importance of Paradip Port and expressed optimism for the future with the upcoming Bahuda Port, aiming for sustainable maritime growth.
In a bold move to enhance Odisha’s maritime and industrial sectors, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced major projects, including a National Shipbuilding Cluster in Kendrapara and a deep-water port at Bahuda. These initiatives, backed by significant investments and federal support, aim to establish Odisha as a maritime hub, fostering economic growth.
The Paradip and Visakhapatnam Port Authorities, along with the Odisha government, plan a major ₹21,500 crore port in Bahuda, set to handle 150 million tonnes annually. This initiative aims to solidify Odisha’s maritime status, improve trade logistics, and modernize ports, while offering tailored financing through SFCL to support stakeholders.
Bhubaneswar: BJD President Naveen Patnaik attended the “Voyages: The Ancient Maritime Silk Route” exhibition in New Delhi, curated by Jaya Mani. The event highlights South Asia’s coastal heritage, with a focus on Odisha. Patnaik praised artists Suresh Muthukulam and Gunjan Jain for their contributions, celebrating the region’s rich maritime history.
The Odisha Maritime Board (OMB) is enhancing the State’s Blue Economy and maritime development. Principal Secretary Usha Padhee emphasized integrated port-led growth, sustainable shipping, and skills training. The OMB aims to modernize infrastructure, promote marine tourism, and attract investments, positioning Odisha as a key maritime hub in Eastern India.
Odisha is revitalizing its maritime sector through strategic policies led by the Commerce & Transport department. By modernizing ports, it aims to create robust economic ecosystems. In FY 2024-2025, Dhamra and Gopalpur ports efficiently processed significant cargo, contributing to state revenue and enhancing Odisha’s position in international trade.
Dhamra Port in Odisha has marked a significant milestone by importing its largest coking coal consignment, totaling 186,782 metric tonnes. Delivered by Tata Steel, this achievement highlights the port’s capability to handle ultra-large vessels and reinforces its status as a premier deep-draft facility on India’s eastern coast.
The Odisha government is set to launch the Dhamara-Talachua Ro-Pax ferry service on National Waterway No. 5, greatly enhancing inland connectivity. This initiative will reduce travel distance from 200 km by road to just 7 km by river, benefiting trade, tourism, and regional access with the new vessel, M.V. Bhupen Hazarika.
The Centre has identified six national waterways in Odisha suitable for cargo, passenger movement, and cruise tourism. Minister Sonowal confirmed their viability after consulting with the state government. NW-5, with a 30 million metric ton capacity, aims to connect industrial areas with ports. Plans for NW-14 and other waterways include infrastructure development for tourism and transportation.
The Odisha state government is set to enhance its marine infrastructure with the construction of two new seaports, in collaboration with PSA Singapore. These new ports, along with shipyards, aim to attract industries to Gopalpur and Dhamra areas. Investments in steel plants and shipyards near the ports signify the state’s commitment to industrial growth.
