Odisha to Add Seven Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals, Strengthening Freight Connectivity
Odisha is set to significantly enhance its logistics and industrial infrastructure with the development of seven new Gati Shakti Multi Modal Cargo Terminals (GCTs) . The expansion forms part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan , aimed at improving freight efficiency, reducing logistics costs and strengthening multimodal connectivity across India.
Official Announcement and Scale of Expansion
The announcement was made by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in the Rajya Sabha on December 12, 2025 . With the approval of seven additional terminals, Odisha will further build on its existing logistics base, which already includes 10 commissioned Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals . The new facilities are expected to be strategically located to serve key industrial and mineral-producing regions of the state.
Impact on Industrial and Supply Chain Efficiency
Railway officials noted that the upcoming terminals will strengthen Odisha’s role as a major industrial and resource hub. The existing GCTs have improved freight movement for sectors such as steel, cement, mining, power and manufacturing . The additional terminals are expected to enhance cargo-handling capacity, shorten transit time and improve cost efficiency, thereby making Odisha’s industries more competitive.
Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal Policy
Introduced in December 2021 , the Gati Shakti Multi Modal Cargo Terminal policy encourages participation from both public and private players. It offers a simplified approval mechanism and provides incentives such as waiver of departmental charges and land licence fees for railway land used in connectivity. The Indian Railways develops and maintains common-user infrastructure at serving stations, lowering entry barriers for operators.
Successful Implementation and National Vision
A notable example is the Jakhapura GCT in Jajpur district , developed under the East Coast Railway at a cost of ₹36.85 crore , capable of handling around 86 rakes per month . Such projects align with the PM Gati Shakti vision of creating a globally competitive logistics ecosystem through integrated, rail-led freight movement.
Exam Oriented Facts
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Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal policy launched in December 2021 .
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Odisha has 10 operational GCTs , with 7 more approved .
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120 GCT locations commissioned nationwide so far.
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PM Gati Shakti focuses on integrated multimodal connectivity .
Month: Current Affairs - December 13, 2025
Category: Infrastructure Development