Odisha invites EOIs for development of non-major ports and maritime infrastructure

Bhubaneswar: In an effort to harness Odisha’s vast maritime potential and strengthen port-led development, the Directorate of Ports and Inland Water Transport under the Commerce and Transport Department, Government of Odisha, has sought Expressions of Interest (EOI) from prospective investors and operators from across the world for the development of non-major ports, cruise terminals, multi-purpose harbours, shipbuilding and repair facilities, and container terminals at notified port limits across the state.

Odisha has a nearly 570 km long coastline. The state has one major port (government-run) at Paradip. Odisha has also identified 14 locations where non-major ports can come up. Two of these – at Dhamra and Gopalpur – are already operational.

This initiative, led by the Odisha Maritime Board, aims to address the increasing demand for cargo handling and boost regional trade, industrial development, and employment through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models. With a 574.71 km long coastline stretching from Bichitrapur in Balasore to Bahuda Muhan in Ganjam, Odisha offers uniquely strategic locations ideal for maritime development.

“The EOI process covers development opportunities at eight notified port locations — Bichitrapur, Bahabalpur, Chandipur, Inchuri, Chudamani, Baliharachandi, Palur, and Bahuda Muhan. These sites are earmarked for phased development and have been backed by detailed traffic projections, environmental assessments, and hinterland connectivity plans,” an official said.

“Spearheaded by the Odisha Maritime Board under the Commerce and Transport Department, this initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to build a world-class, sustainable maritime ecosystem that catalyses cargo handling capacity, maritime tourism, regional trade and employment through private sector participation,” Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, Commerce and Transport Department, said.

The EOI document along with all the details can be accessed and downloaded from the official website of the department.