Odisha to Get Seven Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals To Further Strengthen Its Logistics and Industrial Infrastructure

Odisha is set to further strengthen its logistics and industrial infrastructure with the development of seven new Gati Shakti Multi Modal Cargo Terminals. The move is part of a nationwide push to improve freight efficiency, reduce logistics costs and enhance multimodal connectivity under the PM Gati Shakti framework.

Railway Minister Announces Expansion

The announcement was made by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in the Rajya Sabha on December 12, 2025. He stated that seven additional Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals have been approved for Odisha, building on the success of ten such terminals already commissioned in the state. The expansion is expected to improve freight movement and support industrial growth across multiple districts.

Boost to Logistics and Industrial Supply Chains

Officials said the new terminals will play a critical role in strengthening Odisha’s industrial supply chain by enabling faster and more cost-effective movement of goods. The existing terminals have already begun benefiting sectors such as cement, steel, mining and manufacturing. With the addition of seven more facilities, the state’s logistics ecosystem is expected to gain greater capacity and efficiency.

Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal Policy Explained

The Gati Shakti Multi Modal Cargo Terminal policy was introduced in December 2021 to encourage private and public participation in developing cargo infrastructure on the Indian Railways network. The policy offers a simplified approval process and waives departmental charges and land licence fees for railway land used for connectivity. Common-user facilities at serving stations are constructed and maintained by the railways, reducing the burden on operators.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal policy was launched in December 2021.
• Odisha has already commissioned 10 GCTs.
• Nationwide, 120 GCT locations have been commissioned so far.
• PM Gati Shakti focuses on integrated multimodal connectivity.

Successful Models and National Impact

A recent example of successful implementation is the Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal at Jakhapura in Jajpur district, commissioned under the East Coast Railway. Built at a cost of Rs 36.85 crore, it can handle around 86 rakes per month and manages both inward and outward bulk commodities. Railway officials said such projects are aligned with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, aimed at positioning India as a globally competitive logistics hub through seamless rail-led freight connectivity.