Bhubaneswar: The Government of Odisha’s Electronics and Information Technology Department is planning to build a state-of-the-art Submarine Cable Landing Station (CLS) in Puri, aiming to position Odisha as a global digital hub. In a crucial meeting on Wednesday, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja urged the quick submission of a Detailed Project Report (DPR), with the goal of completing the project in three years.
India currently has 17 submarine cables connecting to 14 CLS facilities along its coastline, which serve as vital links between international undersea fibre optic cables and terrestrial networks. Major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, and Thiruvananthapuram currently host these facilities.
The DPR for the Odisha CLS is being developed in collaboration between Rail Tel and Deloitte. The project is expected to greatly enhance Odisha’s digital infrastructure, attract investment in data centres, draw top tech companies, and create thousands of jobs. Ahuja emphasized the importance of collaborating with hyper scalers and industry leaders to ensure a comprehensive and future-ready approach.
The Odisha CLS is a flagship initiative that aligns with the state’s long-term goals of scalability and ecosystem growth. The government is committed to making Odisha an appealing destination for digital investment, unlocking opportunities for businesses and the workforce. This initiative is also part of India’s broader strategy to strengthen its position in the global digital economy as data-driven industries expand.
Puri was chosen for its strategic location, favourable coastline, robust infrastructure, and scalability. The new facility will offer direct international fibre connectivity, reducing latency and improving internet speeds. Once operational, it will play a crucial role in strengthening India’s position in the global digital network.
