Odisha has taken a significant step toward bolstering its maritime infrastructure by signing Concession Agreements for key port projects valued at Rs 18,654 crore. These initiatives encompass the expansion of Gopalpur Port and the development of a captive jetty at Jatadhari river mouth in Jagatsinghpur district.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, present at the signing event, emphasized the strategic importance of these projects in establishing Odisha as a prominent hub for maritime trade. The agreements outline a Rs 2,100 crore investment by JSW Utkal Steel Limited for a 52 million metric tonne (MMT) capacity captive jetty at Jatadhari, and a Rs 16,554 crore investment by Gopalpur Ports Limited for the enhancement and expansion of Gopalpur Port. The combined projects are anticipated to generate approximately 8,450 direct and indirect employment opportunities.
The captive jetty at Jatadhari, located in Jagatsinghpur, will be developed by JSW Utkal Steel Limited, creating about 3,450 jobs. Gopalpur Ports Limited (Adani Ports) will modernize and expand Gopalpur Port, with a goal of increasing its cargo handling capacity to 50 MMT, leading to approximately 5,000 new jobs. The state government is focusing on developing robust port infrastructure to drive sea trade. The Chief Minister also announced plans to establish two new ports at Inchudi and Bahuda and detailed ongoing development plans for Subarnarekha and Astaranga ports. Majhi expressed confidence that industry leaders like Adani Ports and JSW Steel will foster port-led growth in Odisha.