BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha Maritime Board has called for coordinated efforts to accelerate the development of the state’s maritime economy through better utilisation of maritime resources, expansion of port infrastructure, shipbuilding, cargo movement and cruise tourism.
The emphasis was made during a high-level meeting of the Board chaired by Chief Secretary Smt. Anu Garg on Saturday, where the progress of key maritime projects and initiatives for the integrated growth of the sector was reviewed.
The meeting examined a range of areas, including port infrastructure expansion, inland waterway connectivity, port development and strengthening of human resources within the Board.
Odisha has been steadily developing its maritime infrastructure with the objective of increasing cargo-handling capacity, improving connectivity and encouraging greater utilisation of waterways for freight transportation. With its extensive coastline and network of rivers, the state has significant scope for expanding both coastal shipping and inland water transport.
The Board also reviewed initiatives aimed at developing ports and associated infrastructure, with particular attention to enhancing operational efficiency and establishing stronger connectivity between ports, industrial clusters and logistics networks.
Improved integration of ports and waterways is expected to facilitate the movement of bulk and industrial cargo, while providing exporters and businesses with additional and efficient logistics options.
The review is part of Odisha’s wider efforts to build a stronger and more integrated maritime ecosystem, strengthen transport infrastructure and create the capacity required to support the state’s future trade, logistics and maritime growth.
