WAPCOS to take up feasibility study for riverine port.

The Odisha government has entered into an agreement with Kolkata-based Water and Power Consultancy Services (WAPCOS), a premier consultancy organisation, for developing the first riverine port in the state.

WAPCOS will conduct the techno-economic feasibility study for the proposed port that will see an initial investment of Rs. 500 crore. If found technically feasible and financially viable, the project will be awarded to the successful bidder selected through a competitive bidding process.

The report on the feasibility study is expected to be submitted by March 15, 2014. WAPCOS will be paid Rs. 1.4 crore for the consultancy work.

Though the exact location of the port is yet to be finalised, it is likely to come up at the Mahanadi river mouth near Paradeep close to the operational facilities of Essar Steel Odisha Ltd. and Indian Farmers Fertilisers Cooperative Ltd. (Iffco).

The riverine port has been envisioned as a common user port for different industries.


BS