Paradip Port Authority (PPA) unveiled a series of major infrastructure, sustainability, sports and skill-development initiatives during the visit of Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, marking a significant push towards making Paradip a greener, modern and future-ready major port.
The key milestone of the visit was the inauguration of PNG infrastructure at Paradip Port Township. Under Phase I of the project, 546 residential quarters at Madhuban will receive piped natural gas connectivity at a cost of ₹20 crore. The initiative will provide residents with a safer, more reliable and cleaner source of energy and makes Paradip the first Major Port in India to provide PNG connectivity across its residential township.
The Union Minister also marked a major environmental milestone by planting the 1 millionth tree at Paradip Port, near Gate No. 3. The achievement underlines the Port Authority’s commitment to environmental sustainability and expanding its green cover as the port continues to grow.
In another important initiative, Sonowal inaugurated the new Sports Hostel at Gopabandhu Stadium, Paradip, developed at a cost of ₹2.10 crore. The facility offers modern accommodation and essential amenities for aspiring sportspersons and is aimed at nurturing young talent and promoting sporting excellence.
The Minister also interacted with students trained under the Centre of Excellence in Maritime Studies at the Paradip Port Authority. The interaction focused on skill development , industry-oriented training and expanding career opportunities for India’s youth in the rapidly growing maritime sector.
As part of the port’s modernisation and development initiatives, Sonowal inaugurated the Model Room at the Administrative Office Building, designed to improve the planning, presentation and visualisation of Paradip Port’s infrastructure and development projects. He also inaugurated the newly developed façade of the Administrative Office Building, reflecting the Port’s expanding operations, modernisation and renewed institutional identity.
Sonowal was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour upon his arrival at Paradip Port Authority.
The programmes were attended by Shri Sampad Chandra Swain, Minister for Industries, Skill Development & Technical Education, Government of Odisha; Dr. Bibhu Prasad Tarai, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), Jagatsinghpur; Shri P. L. Haranadh, Chairman, Paradip Port Authority; and senior officials and Heads of Departments of PPA.
The series of initiatives collectively highlight Paradip Port’s focus on clean energy, environmental sustainability, human development, sports promotion, skill development and modern port infrastructure, reinforcing its role as a key engine of India’s maritime and economic growth.