BHUBANESWAR: The State Government has identified 13 potential sites for phase-wise development of minor ports. In a written reply to a question from Sudhir Kumar Samal (Cong), Minister of State for Commerce Jaynarayan Mishra said that the sites are located at the all-weather ports at Gopalpur, Dhamra, Palur, Baliharchandi, Astaranga, Bahuda Muhan, Chudamani, Inchuri, Chandipur, Kirtania (Subarnarekha mouth), Bahabalpur, Barunei Muhano and Jatadhar Muhano. He, however, maintained that government’s budgetary constraints have inhibited development.
The Minister observed that the State will have to play a vital role in the overall development of eastern region of the country, if its natural maritime endowments are to be optimally utilised. He said that sea-bound transport is the most cost-efficient as well as economical means of transport for the conveyance of raw materials, as well as finished products, in bulk. Such an infrastructure could be the necessary backbone, for attracting large-scale industries, he said.
As per the new port policy, Orissa Maritime Board has been constituted and Orissa Maritime Master Plan has been formulated. An integrated port policy for the State would encourage and lay down the pathway for the development of ports and other associated infrastructure for promoting industry, trade and commerce, he said.