Bhubaneswar: In a major step towards strengthening Odisha’s maritime infrastructure, the state government has signed two significant Concession Agreements—one for the expansion of Gopalpur Port and another for setting up a captive jetty at the Jatadhari river mouth in Jagatsinghpur district.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who was present during the signing ceremony at Lok Seva Bhawan, said the projects will play a key role in transforming Odisha into a major hub for maritime trade.

Highlights

1. Rs 2,100 crore investment by JSW Utkal Steel Limited to build a 52 million metric tonne (MMT) capacity captive jetty at Jatadhari.

2. Rs 16,554 crore investment for the expansion and upgradation of Gopalpur Port by Gopalpur Ports Limited.

3. Combined, the projects are expected to create 8,450 direct and indirect jobs.

The captive jetty at Jatadhari, located under Erasama tehsil in Jagatsinghpur, will be developed by JSW Utkal Steel Limited. The initial investment of Rs 2,100 crore is expected to generate around 3,450 employment opportunities.

On the other hand, Gopalpur Ports Limited (Adani Ports) will expand and modernise Gopalpur Port, increasing its cargo handling capacity to 50 MMT. The development will create around 5,000 jobs.

The Chief Minister emphasised that the state government is prioritising the development of port infrastructure to boost sea trade. “Odisha will work in partnership with private companies to enhance its maritime economy,” he said.

The Chief Minister also announced that the government is planning to establish two new ports at Inchudi and Bahuda. Additionally, development plans for Subarnarekha and Astaranga ports are underway.

He expressed confidence that globally reputed companies like Adani Ports and JSW Steel will usher in a new era of port-led growth in Odisha.

The Concession Agreements were signed by senior officials of the involved companies and Odisha government representatives.