In a significant push for the development of inland waterways, the Odisha government is collaborating with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to link Talcher with major ports, including Paradip and Dhamra, through the state’s inland waterway network. The initiative aims to enhance transportation efficiency and sustainability while reducing pollution, marking a major shift towards environmentally friendly logistics solutions.
Usha Padhee, Odisha’s Commerce and Transport department secretary, emphasised the advantages of inland waterways as a clean and sustainable mode of transportation during a recent announcement. “Inland Waterways offer an efficient transport alternative with minimal environmental impact, and this project aligns with our goal of creating a sustainable logistics ecosystem,” said Padhee.
The master plan for this initiative is currently being developed by IIT Madras in collaboration with IWAI, after which the Odisha government will finalise its implementation strategy. The project will tap into the potential of National Waterway 5 (NW-5), one of six national waterways in India. NW-5 spans a total length of 623 km, with 532 km within Odisha and the remaining 91 km passing through West Bengal.
In the first phase of the project, Talcher will be connected to Dharna via Mangaljodi, creating a seamless inland water transport link. Future plans involve expanding the connectivity to link Dhamra with Haldia, boosting maritime commerce further.
With a 480-km coastline, Odisha is also working on a broader vision document that includes a strategic action plan to develop maritime-oriented and port-based inland waterways, aimed at accelerating the state’s growth and positioning Odisha as a key logistics hub in India’s eastern region.
