Mumbai: The India Maritime 2025 MoU signed in Mumbai has sparked a new wave of growth for Odisha’s logistics and trade ecosystem. The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), Government of Odisha, Paradip Port Authority (PPA), and Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) joined forces. They aim to develop National Waterways–5 (NW–5) and National Waterways–64 (NW–64) under a ₹12,200-crore mega project.
The partners aim to transform Odisha’s river routes into a green transport corridor. This will ensure seamless and cost-effective movement of coal and bulk cargo from Talcher coalfields to Paradip and Dhamra ports. The project aligns with the Government of India’s “Viksit Bharat @2047” vision to promote sustainable and advanced infrastructure.
A Special Purpose Vehicle Inland Waterways Consortium of Odisha Limited (IWCOL) will lead the execution. IWAI will handle essential tasks. These include developing critical infrastructure such as terminals and navigation systems. They will also manage regulatory approvals. The Odisha government will provide land and fast-track clearances. Additionally, MCL will ensure cargo flow and first-mile connectivity, and PPA will boost port handling and trade efficiency.
Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Shantanu Thakur witnessed the signing ceremony. Meanwhile, Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary of Odisha’s Commerce & Transport Department, signed on behalf of the state.
This strategic collaboration will create jobs, cut emissions, reduce logistics costs, and strengthen regional connectivity. With this MoU, Odisha is steering India’s inland waterways toward a smarter, greener, and globally competitive future.
The India Maritime 2025 MoU stands as a defining moment in India’s blue economy journey.
