Meeting with CM: Union Minister Jual Oram met the Chief Minister; discussed Rourkela Steel Plant expansion, airport expansion, and President’s visit.
Bhubaneswar, April 8: Jual Oram met Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan to review key infrastructure and industrial development initiatives in Rourkela, ahead of the proposed visit of Droupadi Murmu on April 21.
The meeting focused on accelerating major projects in the steel city, particularly the expansion of the Rourkela Steel Plant and the upgradation of the local airport.
Speaking after the meeting, Union Minister Jual Oram stated that land acquisition for the steel plant expansion is progressing satisfactorily. He noted that several high-level meetings have already been conducted to address challenges related to land availability, and the overall progress has been encouraging. The proposed expansion aims to increase the plant’s capacity from 4.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 9.3 MTPA.
The expansion project, being undertaken by Steel Authority of India Limited, had earlier faced delays due to issues related to the release of approximately 1,200 acres of encroached land. The latest discussions indicate improved coordination between the central and state authorities to resolve these concerns.
The leaders also reviewed progress on the expansion of the Rourkela Airport, which is expected to significantly enhance regional connectivity. The project requires the diversion of land currently held by the steel plant and its transfer to the Airports Authority of India. Sources indicate that around 278 acres of SAIL land and 44 acres of private land are needed for the runway expansion, with progress reported to be on track.
In addition, preparations for the upcoming visit of President Droupadi Murmu to Rourkela were discussed. The visit is expected to highlight key development initiatives and infrastructure progress in the region.
The meeting reflects a continued commitment from both the central and state governments to fast-track critical projects in Rourkela, strengthening its position as a major industrial and infrastructure hub in Odisha.
