Odisha is set to further strengthen its logistics and industrial infrastructure with the development of seven new Gati Shakti Multi Modal Cargo Terminals (GCTs).
The initiative is part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which aims to improve freight efficiency, reduce logistics costs, and enhance multimodal connectivity across India.
The announcement was made by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in the Rajya Sabha on 12 December 2025, highlighting Odisha’s growing role as a logistics hub in eastern India.
Odisha to Get Seven New Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals
Railway Minister Announces Expansion
According to Ashwini Vaishnaw, the approval of seven additional cargo terminals builds upon the success of ten Gati Shakti terminals already operational in Odisha.
This expansion will:
- Improve freight movement efficiency across districts
- Boost industrial supply chains in key sectors like steel, cement, mining, and manufacturing
- Enhance multimodal connectivity and regional trade competitiveness
The move aligns with India’s long-term plan to create a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable logistics network powered by rail-based cargo transport.
Boost to Logistics and Industrial Supply Chains
Officials said the new terminals will serve as critical enablers for Odisha’s industrial ecosystem.
By providing faster and more affordable transport options, these facilities will:
- Strengthen the industrial supply chain
- Reduce logistics costs for businesses
- Facilitate the movement of bulk goods such as minerals, metals, and cement
- Support export-oriented industries through better connectivity to ports and industrial corridors
The 10 existing Gati Shakti terminals in the state have already contributed to more efficient freight handling, demonstrating the model’s success.
Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal Policy Explained
The Gati Shakti Multi Modal Cargo Terminal Policy (GCT Policy) was launched in December 2021 by the Ministry of Railways to encourage private and public participation in developing modern rail-based cargo infrastructure.
Key Features of the Policy:
- Simplified and faster approval process for new terminals
- Waiver of departmental charges and land licence fees for connectivity
- Railways build and maintain common-user facilities at serving stations
- Encourages private sector participation through partnership models
- Promotes multi-modal freight integration (rail-road-port linkages)
The policy ensures a win-win model for both the Indian Railways and industrial players by expanding cargo handling capacity while reducing operational costs.
Successful Models and National Impact
A leading example of success is the Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal at Jakhapura (Jajpur district) under East Coast Railway.
Built at a cost of ₹36.85 crore, the terminal can handle around 86 rakes per month, managing both inward and outward bulk commodities.
This project is part of the national effort under PM Gati Shakti, aimed at:
- Creating seamless rail-based logistics networks
- Reducing logistics costs to global standards
- Positioning India as a competitive global logistics hub
Exam-Oriented Facts
- Policy Launch Year: December 2021
- Existing GCTs in Odisha: 10 commissioned
- New GCTs Approved: 7 (total 17)
- Nationwide Commissioned GCTs: 120 locations
- Example Project: Jakhapura GCT, Jajpur (₹36.85 crore cost; 86 rakes/month)
- Key Objective: Improve multimodal freight efficiency under PM Gati Shakti
- Announced By: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw
- Date of Announcement: 12 December 2025
- Policy Goal: Integrated, rail-led, cost-efficient logistics network
Significance for Odisha
- Positions Odisha as a key logistics gateway for eastern India
- Supports industries in mining, metallurgy, and port-linked trade
- Reduces dependence on road transport and promotes eco-friendly freight
- Attracts private investment in logistics and manufacturing clusters
The expansion of GCTs complements Odisha’s industrial vision and the Government of India’s logistics cost reduction target under PM Gati Shakti.
Question & Answer
Q1. How many new Gati Shakti Multi Modal Cargo Terminals have been approved for Odisha?
(a) 5
(b) 6
(c) 7
(d) 10
Answer: 7
Q2. Who announced the approval of new Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals for Odisha?
(a) Nitin Gadkari
(b) Ashwini Vaishnaw
(c) Piyush Goyal
(d) Hardeep Singh Puri
Answer: Ashwini Vaishnaw
Q3. When was the Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal Policy launched?
(a) 2019
(b) 2020
(c) 2021
(d) 2022
Answer: 2021
Q4. How many Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals have been commissioned nationwide so far?
(a) 80
(b) 100
(c) 120
(d) 150
Answer: 120
Q5. What is the cost of the Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal at Jakhapura in Odisha?
(a) ₹25 crore
(b) ₹36.85 crore
(c) ₹42 crore
(d) ₹55 crore
Answer: ₹36.85 crore
Q6. Which major sectors in Odisha are expected to benefit from the new cargo terminals?
(a) Mining, steel, cement, manufacturing
(b) Tourism, IT, and education
(c) Agriculture and fisheries
(d) Healthcare and retail
Answer: Mining, steel, cement, manufacturing
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