India, Feb. 1 -- The Union Budget's thrust on the development of National Waterway-5 (NW-5) is a decisive step towards building a sustainable, cost-efficient and future-ready logistics ecosystem in Odisha, said Commerce & Transport Department Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) Usha Padhee.

The prioritisation of NW-5-linking Odisha's mineral-rich hinterland with major industrial hubs and strategic ports such as Paradip and Dhamra-will significantly enhance bulk cargo movement while easing pressure on road and rail infrastructure, she added.

"The development of National Waterway-5 aligns seamlessly with Odisha's vision of port-led industrialisation and green mobility. The shift of coal, minerals and steel to inland waterways will reduce lo...