Bhubaneswar: The freight and logistics infrastructure in Odisha has received a substantial upgrade, marked by the commissioning of 12 Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminals (GCTs) across the state. Additionally, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced in the Lok Sabha that 36 more sites have received preliminary approval for development.
In response to queries from Lok Sabha MPs Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu and Vijay Kumar Dubey, Vaishnaw highlighted that the Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal initiative has enhanced the movement of freight linked to railways in Odisha, facilitating better connectivity for various industries and expediting the transportation of goods.
The newly operational cargo terminals are strategically positioned in major industrial and commercial hubs, with three terminals located in Paradeep, Jagatsinghpur district; others at Kechobahal-Laikera in Jharsuguda district; Jajpur Kendujhar Road in Jajpur district; Brajrajnagar and Brundamal in Jharsuguda district; Machapur in Kataka district; Barpali Road in Sundargarh district; Sogra in Sambalpur district; Jakhpura in Jajpur district; and Bondamunda Junction in Sundargarh district.
The Railway Ministry indicated that the expansion of these cargo terminals aims to create a more effective logistics network, allowing industries direct access to the railway freight system. This initiative is projected to benefit sectors such as minerals, steel, power, and manufacturing, which rely heavily on bulk transport.
Moreover, the Ministry reported that approvals have been granted for 36 additional Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal sites in Odisha. These new projects are anticipated to boost the state’s capacity for freight handling and reinforce its status as a vital logistics hub in eastern India.
In the Kendujhar Lok Sabha constituency, there is currently a proposal under consideration for a new cargo terminal at Porjanpur (PRNR).
Vaishnaw explained that the Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminal policy was introduced to promote private investment in cargo infrastructure and enhance freight movement throughout the nation.
Locations for these terminals are chosen based on criteria such as industrial demand, potential for cargo generation, accessibility of railway infrastructure, and regional logistics needs.
To date, 142 Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals have been established nationwide, with approvals for an additional 310 terminals. The existing terminals are estimated to handle a freight capacity of 224 million tonnes per annum (MTPA).
This policy has drawn approximately Rs 10,000 crore in private investment, with freight movement through these terminals projected to reach 146 million tonnes by 2025-26.
Railway officials noted that this initiative is set to lower logistics costs, enhance supply chain efficiency, and invite greater private sector involvement in railway freight operations.
With its abundant mineral resources, industrial capacity, and strategic coastal positioning, Odisha is poised to play a crucial role in the Railways’ objective of expanding freight infrastructure and developing a multimodal logistics network nationwide.
