The Business Bytes
Paradip, November 15, 2024 (TBB Bureau): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Chandra Majhi on Friday emphasized the need to explore the rich historical, spiritual, and mythological aspects of Paradip Port, which has emerged as a leading industrial hub today. While Paradip Port is recognized as one of the top ports globally, the Chief Minister underlined that an in-depth investigation into its past and its connections to ancient maritime history would further enrich the understanding of its importance.
Speaking at the Boita Bandana Festival and Port Day celebrations at the Paradip Port, the Chief Minister highlighted the role of the port in not only serving as a gateway for goods and materials but also as a centre of historical and cultural significance. “Paradip is not just an economic powerhouse for Odisha; it is the very soul of our state’s maritime heritage,” said the Chief Minister, who also praised the port’s role in boosting the economy by facilitating international trade and fostering economic growth in the region.
Chief Minister Majhi also recalled the importance of Paradip in India’s maritime history, particularly its association with ancient sea trade routes. “In the past, the sailors of the Kalinga region ventured to distant lands like Java, Sumatra, Cambodia, and Sri Lanka, spreading not just trade but the cultural and spiritual ethos of Odisha across the world,” he stated. He further added that Paradip Port’s rich history dates back to 1962, when it was just a calm beach with dense forests and wildlife, which has now transformed into a state-of-the-art industrial port contributing significantly to Odisha’s economic landscape.
The modern Paradip Port, which now ranks as one of the largest ports in India, was a strategic focal point in the ancient maritime route and continues to play a crucial role in boosting Odisha’s trade and commerce with countries like Indonesia, China, and Sri Lanka. The rich legacy of the port, both in terms of trade and culture, is a testament to the perseverance of the people of Odisha.
With an eye on the future, the Chief Minister also shared the ongoing efforts by the state government to modernize the port under the ‘Sagar Mala’ project. Paradip is set to undergo further expansions with new infrastructure projects, including the addition of a third terminal, which will increase its cargo-handling capacity and ensure it remains competitive in the global shipping industry.
Highlighting the economic potential, the Chief Minister stated that the Odisha government is working closely with the central government and industry leaders to establish Odisha as a hub for industrial growth. “We are not just looking at mineral exports but also focusing on expanding our industrial base through collaboration with global leaders in the shipping, manufacturing, and energy sectors,” he added.
The Chief Minister also discussed various technological and infrastructural upgrades planned for Paradip Port, which will increase its capacity to handle larger shipments and modernize its logistics systems. The port’s capacity is expected to increase significantly by 2047, positioning it as a global leader in the maritime trade sector.
Further developments include a massive investment of Rs 15,000 crore in India’s National Waterways, which will connect Paradip with other key regions like Kalinga Nagar, promoting inland water transport and bolstering trade relations with Southeast Asia.
In a significant move towards sustainability, the Chief Minister also launched a project to provide piped natural gas (PNG) to over 7,000 households in the Paradip region. This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Clean Energy for All” and will help reduce energy costs for households while contributing to a cleaner environment.
The Chief Minister also laid foundation of new infrastructure projects, including the construction of a three-lane, 500-metre-long bridge designed to accommodate heavy vehicles and improve connectivity. This initiative aims to bolster the port’s capacity and efficiency, further establishing Paradip as a critical node in India’s maritime trade network.
Paradip Port Authority Chairman, PL Haranadh, in his welcome speech, acknowledged the progress made by the port in recent years and expressed confidence that the port’s modernization plans would contribute to transforming Odisha into an industrial powerhouse by 2047. He expressed hope that by 2047, the port’s capacity would increase to 500 million metric tons, which would help it secure a prominent position globally.
The event also witnessed the participation of key leaders including Odisha’s Minister for Industries, Skill Development and Vocational Education, Sampad Chandra Swain, Jagatsinghpur MP, Bibhu Prasad Tarai, and other distinguished officials.
