In a move to fortify its maritime trade capabilities, the Odisha government has finalized Concession Agreements for crucial port projects. These include expanding Gopalpur Port and establishing a captive jetty at Jatadhari in Jagatsinghpur district. The total investment allocated for these projects is Rs 18,654 crore.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, present during the signing ceremony, highlighted the potential of these projects to transform Odisha into a major maritime trade hub. Key elements of the agreements feature JSW Utkal Steel Limited’s Rs 2,100 crore investment to construct a 52 million metric tonne (MMT) capacity captive jetty at Jatadhari and Gopalpur Ports Limited’s Rs 16,554 crore investment to expand and upgrade Gopalpur Port. The projects are anticipated to create approximately 8,450 jobs, both directly and indirectly.
The captive jetty at Jatadhari, located in Jagatsinghpur, will be developed by JSW Utkal Steel Limited, generating approximately 3,450 employment opportunities. Simultaneously, Gopalpur Ports Limited (Adani Ports) will modernize Gopalpur Port, increasing its cargo handling capacity to 50 MMT, leading to the creation of around 5,000 jobs. The state government is prioritizing port infrastructure to foster sea trade. Furthering its commitment, the government also plans to establish two new ports at Inchudi and Bahuda, along with the ongoing development of Subarnarekha and Astaranga ports. Majhi expressed confidence in the capacity of leading companies, like Adani Ports and JSW Steel, to usher in a new era of port-led growth in Odisha.