Puri, Sept. 25 (UDN): Odisha is moving ahead with plans to develop an international cruise terminal in Puri, with the state government targeting March 31, 2028 for completion and operationalisation of the ambitious maritime tourism project.
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The proposed terminal is aimed at giving a major boost to coastal tourism and the state’s maritime economy, while positioning Puri as a destination for international cruise tourism.
The project was disclosed in the Odisha Legislative Assembly through a written reply by Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena.
90 Acres Identified Near Bhargavi River
Around 90 acres of land have been identified in the Sipasarubali area near the mouth of the Bhargavi River in Puri district for development of the cruise terminal.
The project received an institutional push with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Paradip Port Authority (PPA) and the Odisha Maritime Board (OMB) on October 22, 2024.
The proposed facility is expected to provide infrastructure capable of handling international cruise vessels and supporting the growth of tourism-related activities in the region.
Feasibility Study Underway
A Techno-Economic Feasibility Report (TEFR) is currently being prepared by WAPCOS Limited. The report will assess the project’s technical and economic viability and is expected to guide the next phase of planning.
Once the feasibility assessment is completed, the government will finalise the project’s financial and operational framework before construction moves forward.
SPV to Oversee Project
For coordinated planning and implementation, the state plans to establish a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) under the chairmanship of the Chief Executive Officer of the Odisha Maritime Board.
The proposed institutional framework is expected to oversee various aspects of the terminal’s development and eventual operations.
If completed as planned, the Puri cruise terminal could expand Odisha’s presence in the international cruise tourism sector and create a new maritime gateway for visitors arriving along the state’s coastline.
