Bhubaneswar: The year is 2035. The salty breeze carries the hum of activity across the Odisha coastline, a symphony of progress echoing the state’s ambitious maritime vision.
Just a decade ago, Paradip Port, though a titan under the Government of India’s control, was a lone workhorse, struggling to keep pace with the burgeoning cargo demands. But the landscape has transformed dramatically.
Driven by a far-sighted Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) model, the Odisha government has ushered in an era of unprecedented port development. The once-identified 14 potential sites are now buzzing with life. Dhamra and Gopalpur Ports continue to thrive, their established presence a testament to the state’s maritime potential.
Meanwhile, Subarnarekha and Astaranga Ports, once “under development,” are now fully operational, their berths welcoming vessels from across the globe. Even the captive jetty at Jatadhar Muhan is a busy hub, serving specific industrial needs. New Horizons on the Coast
The strategic foresight to develop new non-major ports, cruise terminals, multi-purpose harbors, shipbuilding and repair facilities, and container terminals has truly paid off. The projected increase in cargo handling demand has been met with robust infrastructure, and Odisha’s maritime sector is flourishing.
Across the coastline, eight new designated port locations stand as beacons of economic growth:
- Bichitrapur (Talashari): Located in northern Balasore district is a crucial link for integrated steel plants in Tatanagar, Bokaro, Durgapur, Burnpur, and Rourkela. Its multi-phased development, with a staggering 55 MTPA cargo handling capacity, will significantly boost the region’s industrial output, particularly with the vast iron ore reserves from Chiria, Guva, Amuka, and Keonjhar flowing through its terminals.
Bahabalpur: To the south of Balasore town, Bahabalpur port will become a primary gateway for Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and western West Bengal. Its impressive 105.44 MTPA cargo handling capacity has reshaped regional logistics, offering efficient routes for a diverse range of goods.- Chandipur: Once primarily known for its unique receding shoreline, Chandipur wiil be a bustling port. Its strategic proximity to major steel plants and iron ore mines has made it an attractive option for cargo handling, with its phased development reaching a 10 MTPA capacity.
- Inchuri: This port in southern Balasore district, with its planned 10 MTPA cargo handling capacity, will add to the state’s port network, offering another viable option for industries in its hinterland.
- Chudamani: Situated near Bhadrak town, Chudamani port, with its eventual 10 MTPA capacity, complements the existing Dhamra Port, serving a similar hinterland rich in steel plants and iron ore.
- Baliharichandi: North of Puri, this port, initially modest, will be steadily expanded to a 10 MTPA cargo handling capacity, playing a vital role in the central coastal region’s trade.
- Palur: Just north of Gopalpur, Palur port will be going for its full potential of 10 MTPA cargo handling capacity, strengthening the southern part of Odisha’s maritime infrastructure.
Bahuda Muhan (Sonepur): Will be in a position as a major maritime hub. Beyond Cargo: Tourism and Diverse Maritime Activities
The state’s vision extended beyond just cargo: New Greenfield port projects are continually being explored to anticipate future demands. Furthermore, dedicated cruise terminals have been established at strategic locations, attracting tourists and injecting vitality into the local economies by seamlessly connecting visitors with Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Simultaneously, multi-purpose harbors have been developed, supporting a broader spectrum of maritime activities – from traditional fishing fleets sharing the waters with sleek cargo vessels to modern shipbuilding and repair facilities that have created thousands of jobs.
Odisha’s coast, once underutilized, is now a dynamic testament to strategic planning and public-private collaboration, a vibrant hub of trade, tourism, and industry, ready to meet the demands of tomorrow.