Puri, Nov 5 (UDN): Odisha’s coastal tourism and maritime infrastructure could receive a major boost with the proposed development of an International Cruise Terminal in Puri at an estimated investment of ₹1,500 crore.
Representational Image
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal announced the proposal on Tuesday during a consultative committee meeting of the ministry held in Puri. The project is being planned jointly by the Paradip Port Authority (PPA) and the Odisha government.
The proposed cruise terminal is expected to strengthen Puri’s position as a major maritime tourism destination while creating fresh opportunities for cruise tourism and related economic activities.
Addressing the meeting, Sonowal outlined the Centre’s broader vision for the maritime sector, including plans to increase the share of coastal and inland waterways in India’s freight transportation from the present 6 per cent to 12 per cent by 2047. The government also aims to attract one million sea cruise passengers by 2029.
The meeting focused on expanding coastal shipping, strengthening cruise tourism and improving maritime infrastructure across the country. Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shantanu Thakur and eight Members of Parliament also participated in the discussions.
Highlighting India’s maritime potential, Sonowal pointed to the country’s coastline of more than 11,000 kilometres. He noted that cargo transportation through coastal shipping had increased significantly, with Indian ports handling 177 million metric tonnes in 2025-26, compared with 74 million metric tonnes 12 years earlier.
The Union Minister also highlighted the proposed National Waterway-5 project in Odisha, which requires an estimated investment of over ₹13,000 crore. The project aims to improve connectivity between industrial and mining hubs such as Talcher and Kalinganagar and ports along the eastern coast.
During the meeting, participating MPs offered suggestions on strengthening the country’s maritime infrastructure and improving coastal connectivity.
Sonowal said the recommendations would help shape the Centre’s efforts to build a competitive, sustainable and globally connected maritime sector.
If implemented, the proposed ₹1,500-crore cruise terminal could mark a significant step towards expanding Odisha’s cruise tourism potential and strengthening Puri’s presence on India’s maritime tourism map.