image credits: Dr. Mukesh Mahaling
Odisha government’s Electronics and IT Department has unveiled plans to construct a Cable Landing Station (CLS) in Puri. This ambitious initiative reflects Odisha’s unwavering commitment to progress by bridging the gap between undersea fibre optic networks and land-based systems. The CLS promises to elevate the state’s digital infrastructure, attract international investments, and create a brighter future for its people.
Understanding the Cable Landing Station
A Cable Landing Station (CLS), also known as a submarine cable landing station, is a coastal facility where undersea fibre optic cables, which carry international telecommunications and internet traffic, connect to terrestrial networks. These stations serve as critical junctions in the global communication network, ensuring seamless data transfer across continents. In Odisha’s case, the CLS in Puri will act as a gateway, linking the state directly to the world’s digital highways, enhancing connectivity, and supporting the growth of a robust IT ecosystem.
Puri: The Perfect Gateway
The choice of Puri as the site for this pioneering project is no coincidence. Puri boasts a strategic geographic advantage. Its suitable coastline, scalability potential, and robust infrastructure make it an ideal location for a facility that will connect Odisha to the world through high-speed international fibre networks. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, during a review on Wednesday, emphasized Puri’s unique position, directing officials to ensure the project aligns with a forward-looking vision.
How Will CLS Puri Strengthen the Digital Backbone?
The Puri CLS will reduce latency, enhance internet speeds, and provide direct international connectivity, positioning Odisha as a prime destination for hyperscalers (large-scale cloud service providers), Global Capability Centres (GCCs), and enterprises seeking reliable, high-performance digital infrastructure. The Detailed Project Report (DPR), currently being prepared by RailTel and Deloitte, is a testament to the meticulous planning behind this venture. Chief Secretary Ahuja has urged for its swift finalization, targeting project completion within three years.
What are the Economic Opportunities of CLS?
The ripple effects of this initiative extend far beyond technology. The CLS is poised to act as a catalyst for large-scale investments, drawing top-tier technology firms to Odisha’s shores. This influx of capital will pave the way for world-class data centres and IT infrastructure, reinforcing the state’s digital ecosystem. More importantly, it will generate significant employment opportunities for Odisha’s youth, empowering them to contribute to a data-driven economy. The government’s official release highlights this dual focus: fostering economic prosperity while equipping the workforce with skills for the future.
Odisha’s Role in India’s Digital Destiny
The success of the Puri CLS hinges on collaboration. Chief Secretary Ahuja has stressed the importance of engaging with hyperscalers and key players in the digital ecosystem to ensure the project meets international standards and remains scalable. This proactive approach ensures that Odisha does not merely follow global trends but sets them. By designing the CLS with adaptability in mind, the state government is laying the foundation for a digital hub that can evolve with technological advancements, securing its relevance for decades to come.
Once completed, the Cable Landing Station will transform Odisha into a vital node in the worldwide digital framework. This achievement will not only elevate the state but also strengthen India’s position as a powerhouse in the data-driven economy. The project aligns with the national vision of digital empowerment.
