Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi confirms Rourkela Steel Plant expansion to 9.5 MTPA and Rourkela airport upgradation, boosting industry and investment
OdishaPlus Bureau
On Wednesday, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi assured that his government would positively pursue the expansion of the Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) and the upgrade of Rourkela airport. Currently, RSP operates as a 4.5 MTPA steel plant, with plans to increase its capacity to 9.5 MTPA by 2030. The Rourkela airport features a single runway measuring 1,930 meters, which is inadequate for accommodating large-body aircraft. In response to media inquiries, Majhi emphasized that Rourkela’s dual identity as a steel city and a smart city makes these expansion projects essential.
“Since our government assumed office, I have engaged in discussions with RSP authorities and officials from the steel department. Following this, the Union Steel Minister visited Rourkela with his team to review the situation. We further discussed this matter in Bhubaneswar,” he stated. Majhi announced the formation of a task force, chaired by Development Commissioner Deoranjan Kumar Singh, to expedite the expansion of RSP. “The task force, along with relevant officials, has already made three visits to Rourkela. Ongoing discussions are yielding positive progress.
These matters had previously been overlooked, but since our government took over, we have made significant advancements,” he remarked. Assuring prompt action, Majhi added, “With the backing of the double-engine government, I can confidently state that the expansion of the Rourkela Steel Plant and Rourkela airport will commence shortly.” The Chief Minister also noted the increasing interest from investors in western Odisha, particularly within the MSME sector. “
A roadshow was held in Rourkela, attracting over 500 investors from Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand. Many have shown interest in pursuing MSME projects. Additional MoUs will be signed in the near future, followed by the groundbreaking of several initiatives,” he stated. Majhi asserted that industrialization will not be limited to specific areas. “Projects will be developed across all 30 districts of the state. MoUs and groundbreaking activities are set to occur in 29 districts, with this process commencing today. Discussions are underway.