During the inauguration of Kalinga Bali Yatra (an event that celebrates the state's rich maritime history) on Tuesday, Odisha chief minister Charan Majhi mentioned Paradeep as the future green hydrogen hub of Odisha. This would lead the state to be a part of the country’s sustainable energy mission and would also help in sustainable industrial growth and attract new investments in tourism, trade, and clean energy.
CM Charan Majhi said, “Paradeep is the gateway of development in eastern India. The upcoming projects will create large-scale employment opportunities and strengthen the state’s economy,” as cited in the Sambad English.
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The CM plans to transform Odisha’s coastline into a premier tourism and economic corridor. He also announced that he plans to build a world-class cruise terminal in Paradeep, which would cost an estimated ₹500 crores. The terminal would be developed on the Mangala River.
According to the Times of India, the CM said, “Our ancestors braved the high seas, establishing trade routes that enriched our culture and economy.”
Besides the cruise terminal, the CM plans to construct a new greenfield airport in Paradeep city, which would enhance the airways connectivity, besides waterways and roadways.
These projects are a part of a larger state strategy for port-led development and integrated infrastructure. The CM also announced that he wants to create a vast metropolitan corridor linking Bhubaneswar, Khordha, Jatani, Cuttack, Paradip, and Puri, which will create an extensive economic and urban zone.
The announcement that was made by the CM at the festival symbolizes the government’s vision for the state to blend cultural heritage with modern economic aspirations. These developments are expected to create mass employment opportunities and boost the local economy.
Industries and Skill Development Minister Sampad Swain, who also attended the function, reiterated the commitment to fast-track the projects with an aim to build a prosperous Odisha, cited the Times of India.