The development of National Waterway-5 (NW-5) on the Mahanadi river is currently underway, with the project’s first phase having commenced and preliminary work on the second phase in progress. The first phase of NW-5 spans 201 km and connects Jokadia and Pankapal to Dhamra and Paradip via Mangalgadi. Meanwhile, the second phase covers a distance of 131 km and links Jokadia/Pankapal to the coal-rich Talcher area. Additionally, NW-64 will soon connect Sambalpur to Paradip.
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has invited expressions of interest for the development and management of some portions of the two national waterways, which will serve as an essential link between the Kalinganagar industrial area, coal mines in Talcher and Paradip and Dhamra ports. The development of these waterways is expected to boost transportation and connectivity, facilitating the efficient and cost-effective movement of goods and commodities.
The ongoing development of NW-5 and NW-64 is part of the Indian government’s broader efforts to modernise and expand the country’s transportation network. The project’s development is expected to create new job opportunities, particularly in the transport and logistics sectors, and boost regional trade.
The development of the first phase of NW-5 will connect industrial areas in Jokadia and Pankapal to Dhamra and Paradip, enhancing the efficiency of inland water transport along the route. The second phase of NW-5 will further improve connectivity by linking Jokadia/Pankapal to the Talcher area, which is rich in coal deposits.
Once completed, NW-5 and NW-64 are expected to create new opportunities for inland water transport in the region and promote growth of the ports at Dhamra and Paradip. The government’s investment in these infrastructure projects aims to facilitate economic growth and promote job creation.
