Reviving the veins of inland trade: Odisha showcases waterways as key to sustainable trade growth

Mumbai(29/10/2025): The Government of Odisha presented its forward-looking vision for sustainable and integrated transport development at Maritime Week 2025 held in Mumbai.

Participating in the high-level panel discussion on “Navigating Growth: Inland Waterways in the Forefront of Future Transport and Logistics”, 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 deliberated on reviving and modernising India’s inland waterways as a low-cost, efficient, and environmentally responsible mode of cargo transport.

Discussions focused on coastal–inland connectivity, multimodal integration, long-haul cargo movement, and cost competitiveness, positioning Inland Water Transport (IWT) as a crucial component of the future logistics ecosystem. Padhee outlined Odisha’s strategic roadmap for developing blue maritime infrastructure and establishing multimodal logistics hubs that link ports, rivers, and industrial clusters.

She emphasised the State’s thrust on public–private partnerships, smart logistics solutions, and green transport initiatives aligned with the principles of a circular economy and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The panel also examined policy and regulatory reforms to accelerate industry participation in IWT, streamline customs and cargo handling systems, and promote standardised vessel design for efficient operations.

A thematic segment on “Revival of Waterways and Circular Economy” highlighted opportunities to rejuvenate underutilised river routes and integrate waste-to-value models in riverine logistics. In her concluding remarks, Padhee observed “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.” Other eminent panellists included Sunil Kumar Singh, Chairman (I/C), IWAI; Harrie de Leijer, Partner, Nestra (Netherlands); Shri Pranab Jha, Executive Vice President, JSW Steel Ltd.; Capt.Priyaranjan Behera, AVP, Ultratech Ports & Shipping; Pradeep Purohit, COO, Star Cement; Vivek Arya, Regional CEO – India, Rhenus Logistics; and Rajnesh Gogoi, Managing Director, Assam Petrochemicals Ltd.