In a major move to strengthen its maritime infrastructure and boost logistics-led development, the Odisha government has signed two major concession agreements involving a combined investment of ₹18,654 crore (~US$ 2.23 billion). These agreements are expected to create approximately 8,450 jobs, enhancing the state’s position as an emerging logistics and trade hub on the eastern coast.
Highlights of the Agreements:
- ₹2,100 crore captive jetty by JSW Utkal Steel:
- Location: Jatadhara Muhan, Jagatsinghpur district (near Paradip)
- Capacity: 52 million metric tons of cargo annually
- Jobs Generated: ~3,450 direct & indirect jobs
- ₹16,554 crore expansion of Gopalpur Port by Gopalpur Ports Ltd (Adani Ports):
- Upgraded handling capacity: 50 million metric tons
- Employment: ~5,000 direct & indirect opportunities
- Total projected cargo handling capacity addition: 102 million metric tons annually
Strategic Goals Behind the Projects:
- Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model is central to Odisha’s port-led growth strategy.
- Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized the state’s intent to become a maritime trade hub.
- Additional port developments underway:
- New ports planned at Inchudi and Bahuda
- Ongoing development at Subarnarekha and Astaranga
Officials & Industry Leaders Present:
- Chief Minister: Mohan Charan Majhi
- Commerce & Transport Minister: Bibhuti Bhushan Jena
- Fisheries Minister: Gokulanand Mallick
- Senior bureaucrats and industry heads including:
- Anil Kumar Singh (President, JSW Utkal Steel)
- Sandeep Jaiswal (Business Head, Gopalpur Ports Ltd)
Why This Matters for India’s Maritime Sector:
- Marks a significant step in decentralizing port capacity beyond major ports.
- Enhances industrial logistics for Odisha’s mineral-rich hinterlands and manufacturing clusters.
- Boosts employment, trade volume, and private investment in Eastern India.
