Bhubaneswar: The state govt has planned to develop a modern international cruise terminal at Puri to position the pilgrim city on India’s growing cruise tourism map. The proposed facility is targeted to be completed and made operational by Dec 2028, according to a reply in the state assembly on Thursday.Replying to a question raised by MLA Sanjib Kumar Mallick, commerce and transport minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena informed the assembly in a written reply that the state has proposed the development of an international cruise terminal in Puri and has already initiated the groundwork for the project.As part of the initiative, an MoU was signed between Paradip Port Authority (PPA) and Odisha Maritime Board (OMB). The two agencies will work towards establishing the terminal at Sipasarubali in Puri, near the mouth of Dhaudia river. Around 60 acres of land have been identified for it.The minister informed the House that the project’s estimated cost is yet to be finalised. A detailed techno-economic feasibility report is currently being prepared by WAPCOS Limited, a central govt enterprise. The report is expected to determine the project’s financial viability, infrastructure requirements and implementation roadmap.Officials said the cruise terminal is expected to boost coastal tourism and create opportunities for allied sectors such as hospitality, transport and local businesses in and around Puri. The city, which already attracts lakhs of pilgrims and tourists every year, is being positioned as a potential gateway for cruise tourism along the coastline.The govt has also proposed the creation of a special purpose vehicle (SPV) under the chairmanship of the chief executive officer of Odisha Maritime Board to oversee the planned development and execution of the project. “Further decisions regarding funding and implementation will be taken after submission of the feasibility report,” he said.
