Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday announced an ambitious plan to transform Paradip in Jagatsinghpur district into the gateway to eastern India, with major infrastructure and industrial projects including a greenfield airport, a cruise terminal, and a green hydrogen hub, reports Business Standard.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Kalinga Bali Jatra in Paradip, a festival celebrating Odisha’s rich maritime heritage, Majhi said the event symbolizes the courage and enterprise of ancient Odia sailors and traders.
“This festival reminds us of our ancestors who braved the sea and established trade and cultural relations with many countries,” he said.
Majhi announced that a cruise terminal would be built on the Mangala River to develop Paradip as a tourism destination, with the state government allocating ₹500 crore for the project. He added that plans for an airport in Paradip were also in progress.
“Paradip Port has now become one of India’s most important trade and industrial hubs. Our government is committed to ensuring the overall development of the town and the port,” the Chief Minister said.
He outlined several upcoming initiatives, including the establishment of a greenfield airport, the development of a mega urban cluster connecting Bhubaneswar, Khurda, Jatni, Cuttack, Paradip, and Puri, the creation of industrial corridors, and the development of Paradip beach for tourism.
The event was attended by Industries and Skill Development Minister Sampada Chandra, Jagatsinghpur MP Bibhu Prasad Tarai, and Paradip Port Authority Chairman P. L. Harnadha.
