Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated seven major infrastructure projects at Paradip Port Authority, with a combined value of Rs 4.278 bn, as the port marked the attainment of an 18.5-metre deep-draft capability. The event was presented as a milestone for the eastern maritime gateway and was said to signal wider economic opportunities for the region. The minister outlined that enhanced cargo handling, deeper drafts and improved connectivity will support trade and logistics growth. The projects include capital dredging for the 18.5-metre deep-draft at Rs 3.52 bn, the Atharbanki Second New Bridge at Rs 248.9 mn and an Advanced Vessel Traffic Management and Information System developed with IIT Madras' National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts. The capital dredging was described as central to accommodating larger vessels and improving draft margins. The bridge and the traffic management system are intended to enhance connectivity and navigational safety. He witnessed the signing of concession agreements for three mechanisation projects totalling Rs 15.804 bn aimed at expanding cargo handling and cutting vessel turnaround. The projects comprise a five million tonnes per annum (MTPA) South Quay mechanisation project awarded for Rs 4.987 bn, an eight million tonnes per annum (MTPA) multipurpose berth mechanisation project awarded for Rs 6.307 bn, and a 10 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) captive CQ-III mechanisation project awarded for Rs 4.51 bn. Authorities indicated these investments will raise operational efficiency and capacity. Sonowal also planted the port's one-millionth tree as part of long running green initiatives launched after the 1999 super cyclone, underscoring environmental measures alongside expansion. The port authority highlighted corporate social responsibility programmes including placement linked skill training for 168 unemployed youths from Odisha through the Centre of Excellence in Maritime and Shipbuilding in Visakhapatnam. Officials framed the combination of mechanisation, deeper drafts and skills development as likely to generate employment and industrial activity in the region.