Odisha Showcases Vision for Sustainable and Integrated Transport at Maritime Week 2025
State Emphasises Inland Waterways and Green Logistics as Drivers of Future Growth
Mumbai: The Government of Odisha presented its forward-looking vision for sustainable and integrated transport development at Maritime Week 2025 held in Mumbai. Participating in a high-level panel discussion on “Navigating Growth: Inland Waterways in the Forefront of Future Transport and Logistics,” Smt. Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, Housing & Urban Development and Commerce & Transport Departments, highlighted Odisha’s proactive initiatives to strengthen inland and coastal waterway connectivity.
The session focused on reviving and modernising India’s inland waterways as a low-cost, efficient, and environmentally responsible mode of cargo transport. Deliberations centred on coastal–inland connectivity, multimodal integration, long-haul cargo movement, and cost competitiveness, positioning Inland Water Transport (IWT) as a key element in India’s future logistics ecosystem.
Smt. Padhee outlined Odisha’s strategic roadmap for developing blue maritime infrastructure and establishing multimodal logistics hubs that seamlessly link ports, rivers, and industrial clusters. She underscored the State’s commitment to public–private partnerships, smart logistics solutions, and green transport initiatives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and principles of the circular economy.
A thematic segment on “Revival of Waterways and Circular Economy” explored opportunities to rejuvenate underutilised river routes and integrate waste-to-value models in riverine logistics. The panel also discussed policy and regulatory reforms to encourage greater industry participation in IWT, streamline customs and cargo handling systems, and promote standardised vessel designs for efficient operations.
In her concluding remarks, Smt. Padhee noted,
“Odisha’s rivers and coastline have for centuries been the lifelines of commerce and culture. The State is now committed to reviving this heritage through modern, sustainable waterway infrastructure that not only reduces logistics costs but also fosters greener, inclusive economic growth. Inland Water Transport will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of trade connectivity in Eastern India.”
The panel featured distinguished experts including Shri Sunil Kumar Singh, Chairman (I/C), IWAI; Mr. Harrie de Leijer, Partner, Nestra (Netherlands); Shri Pranab Jha, Executive Vice President, JSW Steel Ltd.; Capt. Priyaranjan Behera, AVP, Ultratech Ports & Shipping; Shri Pradeep Purohit, COO, Star Cement; Shri Vivek Arya, Regional CEO – India, Rhenus Logistics; and Shri Rajnesh Gogoi, Managing Director, Assam Petrochemicals Ltd.
