Puri To Get International Cruise Terminal With Rs 1,500-Crore Investment

Puri is set to emerge as a major maritime tourism destination, with the Odisha government planning to develop an international cruise terminal in the pilgrim town at an estimated investment of Rs 1,500 crore.

The proposed terminal will feature a modern passenger terminal facility, offering domestic and international tourists a new cruise travel experience and boosting Puri’s global tourism appeal.

The Commerce and Transport Department is currently preparing the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the ambitious project. The location for the terminal in Puri district will be identified after the design and DPR are finalised, the Puri Collector said.

The project is expected to give a major boost to the local economy by generating opportunities in hospitality, transport, handicrafts and small businesses, besides creating direct and indirect employment.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said the initiative would complement Puri’s religious identity with maritime tourism and open up new avenues for economic growth. Local residents and intellectuals have also welcomed the proposal.

However, the project’s exact location and implementation timeline are yet to be finalised.