On March 5, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for a multitude of development initiatives valued at over Rs 19,600 crores in Chandikhole, Jajpur district of Odisha. This strategic move encompasses projects spanning the oil & gas, railways, road, transport & highways, and atomic energy sectors, signifying a substantial investment in the region’s growth.
Boosting Industrial Activities and Employment Opportunities During the ceremony, Prime Minister Modi underscored the pivotal role these mega development projects would play in elevating industrial activities in the region. Additionally, the initiatives are anticipated to create a significant number of new employment opportunities, contributing to the socio-economic development of the area.
Key Projects Inaugurated
- Paradip to Haldia Product Pipeline (344 km): Enhancing connectivity and facilitating efficient transportation.
- Mono Ethylene Glycol Project at Paradip Refinery: A significant venture by the Indian Oil Corporation Limited, contributing to the petrochemical industry.
- LPG Import Facility at Paradip: With a capacity of 0.6 MMTPA, poised to revolutionize the polyester industry in Eastern India and supply raw materials to textile parks in Bhadrak and Paradip.
Other Noteworthy Initiatives
- Four-Laning of National Highways: Upgrading sections of national highways, including NH-49 and NH-18, to enhance road infrastructure.
- Eight-Laning of Chandikhole – Paradip Section: Elevating connectivity for efficient transportation and trade.
- Bansapani – Daitari – Tomka – Jakhapura Rail Line (162 km): Increasing traffic capacity and facilitating the transportation of iron and manganese ore.
- CONCOR Container Depot in Kalinga Nagar: A strategic move to bolster domestic and international trade.
- Workshops and Maintenance Facilities: Including Electric Loco Periodical Overhauling Workshop at Narla, Wagon Periodical Overhauling Workshop at Kantabanji, and upgradation of facilities at Baghuapal.
- New Train Services: Expanding transportation options and connectivity.
- Seawater Desalination Plant at Odisha Sands Complex: A 5 MLD capacity plant developed as part of indigenous desalination technologies.
Empowering Eastern States in the Energy Sector
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the government’s commitment to bolstering the energy sector in Eastern states. Initiatives under the Urja Ganaga Yojana are underway, focusing on the supply of natural gas to Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha.
Commitment to Timely Project Completion
Addressing the audience, Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s dedication to completing capital-intensive projects within stipulated timelines. The government’s emphasis on modern connectivity in Odisha, as evidenced by the desalination plant in Ganjam district, reflects a commitment to harnessing local resources and fostering economic growth.
The unveiled projects underscore India’s transformative vision, emphasizing infrastructure development, connectivity, and sustainable growth in the Eastern region.