The trial run of cargo vessel on the proposed National Waterway-5 is likely to commence by December end, Odisha Commerce and Transport Minister Ramesh Majhi said on Friday.
The waterway would facilitate cargo transportation, including coal, iron ore and other minerals, to the ports in the state. It is being developed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India.
The National Waterways-5 would connect Pankpal-Jokadia to Dhamra and Paradip covering about 200-km stretch in the first phase.
Taking a review meeting over the proposed project, Majhi directed to complete all process including dredging by December for movement of vessel on the stretch besides loading and unloading operations.
“Work on carrying out trials on the stretch from Erada in Jajpur district to Dhamra port has already commenced. All works related to the trial operation would finish in time,” said an official.