By Our Correspondent
BHUBANESWAR: According to Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, in the state of Odisha, the Sagarmala Programme has been instrumental in driving significant infrastructural development along its coastal areas. Currently, 53 projects valued at approximately Rs. 54,500 Cr are being monitored, with 21 projects already completed, amounting to Rs. 12,700 Crore. An additional 32 projects, valued at Rs. 41,800 Cr, are in various stages of implementation.
Notably, 7 projects, partially funded by MoPSW, are underway, with one completed and six in progress. Furthermore, under the Holistic Development of Coastal Districts initiative, nine projects, totalling Rs. 157 Cr, have been identified, focusing on fisheries, skill development, tourism, and urban water transportation.
Ongoing endeavours include the transformation of the Paradip fishing harbour into a world-class facility, with a budget of Rs. 108 Cr, and the up skilling of 2860 candidates through the Skill Development Program – Phase II. Looking ahead, upcoming projects aim to uplift the fishermen community by establishing a fishing harbour at Chandipur and improving ferry services between Satapada and Jahnikuda, with a focus on enhancing local connectivity and preserving ecological balance amidst climate change challenges.
Paradip Port significantly contributes to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities, encompassing education, environment, healthcare, sanitation, electricity, sports, and culture. The inauguration of the Medical Mobile Unit (MMU) exemplifies this commitment. Costing around Rs 48LPA to operate, the MMU reflects the port’s dedication to providing accessible healthcare to underprivileged communities nearby. Staffed with skilled medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, technicians, and pharmacists, the MMU offers various services like maternal and paediatric care, disease management, and health awareness programs. Its mobility ensures healthcare reaches those in need across Paradip and its surrounding areas.
It is noteworthy that Paradip Port’s expansion is at centre stage now. The Western Dock project worth Rs 3,004.63 crore is a crucial step towards enhancing its capacity to over 300MTPA in next two years. The project encompasses the creation of a new dock, equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and handling facilities, tailored to accommodate various dry bulk cargoes.
Moreover, the project includes deepening the inner harbour to accommodate Cape vessels, necessitating draft depths of up to 18 meters. The project involves deepening and optimization of inner harbour facilities including development of western dock on build, operate and transfer (BOT) basis under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode at Paradip Port.
Paradip Port’s noteworthy trajectory is further highlighted by its central role in coastal shipping, managing almost 25% of the coastal traffic handled by all ports in the country. It offers enterprises all throughout the nation economical and effective port services, operating at over 80% berth mechanization.
Notably, Paradip Port tops the list of Major Ports in productivity; in the fiscal year 2022–2023, it achieved 32,500 metric tons per ship berth day, enhancing its standing as a major participant in the Indian maritime sector.
