Rourkela Steel Plant expansion gets fresh push as Odisha CM assures support

In a major boost to Rourkela, Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel HD Kumaraswamy and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi discussed how to accelerate the long-pending expansion of the Rourkela Steel Plant during a high-level meeting at the Lok Seva Bhavan on Wednesday, aiming to double its annual capacity and resolve land-related obstacles.

Rourkela Steel Plant Expansion Back on Track

The flagship Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) is slated for a major capacity boost, from 4.5 million tonnes to 9.5 million tonnes per annum. This expansion is expected to strengthen Odisha’s industrial footprint and support India’s growing demand for steel.

However, one key hurdle continues to slow down progress: land acquisition. The Union Minister highlighted that despite technical preparations being in place, expansion work cannot advance without resolving this issue.

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Chief Minister Assures Full Support

During the meeting, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi assured the Centre of complete cooperation, promising that Odisha would facilitate swift land acquisition. He also directed senior officials to speed up the resolution process to prevent further delays.

Officials from both the Central and State governments were present, underscoring the importance of inter-governmental coordination for the project’s success.

Union Minister Reviews On-Ground Progress

Prior to the meeting, Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy visited the Rourkela Steel Plant to review current operations and assess the readiness for expansion. He reiterated the Central Government’s strong focus on enhancing steel production across the country.

"The Odisha Chief Minister responded quite well. I am very grateful to him. The Rourkela Steel Plant capacity is going to be augmented to 9.5 million tonne. Our government is encouraging several private stakeholders who are contributing in a big way," said Union Steel Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy.

The meeting marks a significant step towards reviving one of Odisha’s biggest industrial expansion plans. With both governments aligned, the Rourkela Steel Plant is poised for a transformative leap, one that could bolster regional development and strengthen India’s steel sector.