In a significant development for India’s maritime infrastructure, Paradip Port Authority, Visakhapatnam Port Authority, Sagarmala Finance Corporation Ltd, and the Odisha government have come together to jointly develop a new major port at Bahuda in Odisha’s Ganjam district. The project, with an estimated investment of Rs 215 billion, will mark the addition of the 14th major port under the ownership of the Union government.
The proposed Bahuda port is designed to handle dry bulk ships ranging from 40,000 to 150,000 deadweight tonnes and container vessels with capacities of up to 6,000 TEUs, enhancing the region’s shipping capabilities. This initiative follows a comprehensive Pre-Techno Economic Feasibility Study conducted by the Odisha government, which emphasized the port’s strategic role in boosting regional trade and driving port-led industrialization.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the development is scheduled to be signed on September 20 in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This agreement will formalize the collaboration between key stakeholders, including the Paradip and Visakhapatnam port authorities, Sagarmala Finance Corporation Ltd, and the Odisha government.
Sagarmala Finance Corporation Ltd, a non-banking financial company registered with the Reserve Bank of India and focused on maritime sector development, will provide crucial funding support. It plans to extend short-term, medium-term, and long-term loans for port modernization, connectivity enhancement, coastal community development, and related infrastructure projects.
The Bahuda port project is expected to significantly enhance port-led growth, improve transport connectivity through road and rail, and promote industrial development along Odisha’s coastline.
Eastern India already boasts several major and private ports including Paradip, Dhamra, and Gopalpur. Private sector participation includes Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) operating at Dhamra and Gopalpur, Tata Steel Ltd developing a port at Subarnarekha Mouth (Kirtania), and Navayuga Engineering Company Ltd working on a port at Astaranga.
The new Bahuda port is poised to further strengthen India’s maritime capabilities and economic prospects, reinforcing the country’s position as a key player in regional and global trade.
