Odisha Seeks Centre’s Assistance To Set Up International Maritime University

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has proposed to set up a world class maritime institute in the state and sought the Centre’s support in this regard.

Speaking at the Maritime State Development Council meeting, organised by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, in Goa on Friday, Odisha’s Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena drew the attention of the Centre towards development of maritime infrastructure and ports in the state.

Considering the maritime heritage of Odisha, Jena said the government has proposed to set up a maritime institute or university to create skilled human resources for the sector. He sought the Centre’s assistance in this regard.

Stating that there was a need for another major port and a cruise terminal in the state, the minister said, “Introduction of a 20-seater solar-electric boat in Chilika lake and conversion of 2,696 motorised boats into hybrid solar boats as per the Centre’s Harit Nauka guidelines should be initiated soon.”

He also sought the Centre’s assistance for construction of new fishing harbours and jetties. Besides, permanent and concrete steps need to be taken for development of 480 km long coastline of the state and inland waterways on water bodies for promotion of connectivity as well as tourism, he added.