Odisha CM Mohan Majhi welcomes Union Budget push for National Waterway-5

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi on Sunday welcomed the Union Budget 2026–27, lauding the Centre’s focus on strengthening inland waterways, particularly the push towards operationalising National Waterway-5 (NW-5), which he described as a transformative step for the State’s logistics and industrial ecosystem.

Expressing gratitude to the Union Government, the Chief Minister said the announcement reflects a strong commitment towards promoting environmentally sustainable and cost-effective cargo transportation. He noted that the development of National Waterway-5 would significantly enhance Odisha’s logistics efficiency while reducing dependence on road and rail transport, thereby lowering carbon emissions and transportation costs.

National Waterway-5 is envisioned as a crucial infrastructure corridor connecting the mineral-rich regions of Talcher and Angul, which are key hubs for coal and other natural resources. The waterway will also provide seamless connectivity to major industrial centres such as Kalinga Nagar, enabling smoother movement of raw materials and finished goods. Importantly, it will link these regions to the ports of Paradip and Dhamra, strengthening Odisha’s position as a major industrial and maritime gateway in eastern India.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the project is expected to act as a catalyst for industrial growth, attract fresh investments, and generate employment opportunities across multiple sectors. Improved inland water transport is also likely to support skill development and boost ancillary industries linked to logistics and shipping.

Also Read: Union Budget 2026–27: New freight corridor, waterways to boost Odisha’s industrial connectivity

Echoing these views, the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) stated in a post on X that Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, while presenting the Union Budget 2026–27, announced measures to promote environmentally sustainable cargo movement, including the operationalisation of National Waterway-5 in Odisha. The initiative, the CMO said, would enhance logistics efficiency while accelerating industrial growth across the State.