Odisha Cabinet has approved the financial bid for the construction of Fishing Harbour Stage-II at Astaranga (Nuagarh) in Puri district, giving a major push to modern marine fishing infrastructure in the state.
The project, with an execution cost of ₹133.81 crore (excluding GST), is targeted for completion within 24 calendar months. IIT Madras will serve as the Project Management Consultant (PMC), providing technical assistance.
Once operational, the harbour will offer an integrated set of facilities including landing and berthing space, idle quay, auction hall, net-mending shed, gear shed, market complex, slipway, and boat-repairing facilities. Round-the-clock water and power supply will support hygienic fish handling, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen the fish marketing chain.
The harbour is designed to provide safe landing and berthing facilities for 1,960 mechanized fishing crafts. It is expected to handle an annual fish catch of 55,876 metric tonnes, valued at approximately ₹496.36 crore. Around 35,000 fishermen and other stakeholders are projected to benefit directly and indirectly.
A key expected outcome is the reduction of post-harvest fish losses from about 20% to 7%. Improved landing, handling, auctioning, storage, and market-linked infrastructure will help fishermen secure better value for their catch while enhancing the quality and shelf life of fish reaching consumers and markets.
The project will also strengthen marine safety and coastal security by offering protected berthing facilities for Coast Guard and Marine Police vessels. Fishing vessels will have secure shelter during cyclones and other adverse weather conditions.
Aligned with the state’s Deep Sea Fishing Mission and Vision 2036–47, the Astaranga Fishing Harbour aims to support Odisha’s transition towards a modern, productive, sustainable, and export-oriented Blue Economy. It will strengthen linkages between fishing operations and shore-based post-harvest and marketing infrastructure, contributing to better livelihoods, employment, and socio-economic conditions for fishermen, fish farmers, fish workers, and related stakeholders.
