The Gopalpur port, which was closed after the severe cyclone Phailin in Oct’13, is ready to start operation. Resumption of port operation is important due to its proximity to Tata Steel’s Gopalpur SEZ. The company has already shown interest in using the port for its cargo handling.
“The repairing work of the port damaged during the cyclone Phailin has been completed. The berths, break water and several other parts of the port are ready to commence operation. We are hopeful to start operation within a fortnight subject to getting few statutory clearances by the government authorities”, said Manmohan Moharana, director (operations) Gopalpur Port.
Prior to the cyclone, the port had operated for a short period of 6 months only. Meanwhile, the berth, which was 150 m before the catastrophe, is being extended to 275 m. Recently, an expert committee made an inspection of the port and examined several aspects of the port including the berth, jetty, customs department etc.
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