Keonjhar: Affirming Odisha government’s commitment to rapid development of Keonjhar, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday announced that land acquisition for proposed mega steel plant in the district is set to begin soon.
Majhi, who was on a two-day visit to the district, reviewed several development projects being taken up.
Asserting that Keonjhar will soon have a mega steel plant, the Chief Minister said with preparation for the ambitious project is in an advanced stage.
The process has made considerable progress and the company concerned has deposited necessary funds for the purpose, said Majhi.
While acquisition of land for the proposed project is likely to begin soon, he said necessary steps would be taken for the project construction at the right stage.
Lamenting that Keonjhar district had been neglected for a long time, the Chief Minister his government is taking concrete steps to place the mineral-rich district on the path of development.
As the focus is on development, industrialisation along with infrastructure building were discussed at the meeting in the presence of MLAs from the district, Majhi told reporters.
Focus of the meeting was infrastructure development, particularly road connectivity. Majhi reviewed projects such as the Raisuan Airstrip, Keonjhar Bypass, iconic bridges, railway station roads, and several key routes like Nudurapada-Kaliahata, Pithagola, and Suakati Double Bridge over the Baitarani River. He also assessed the Mining Corridor and other major road projects, directing officials to accelerate land acquisition, prepare detailed project reports (DPRs), and resolve forest-related issues promptly. New proposals for roads and bridges, including the Ramachandrapur-Deogaon Bridge, were also discussed.
The Chief Minister emphasised the importance of public welfare and instructed officials to address community demands swiftly. He commended the district administration for its progress in implementing the Subhadra Yojana and Lakhpati Didi Yojana, which have positioned Keonjhar as a leader in these schemes across Odisha. Additionally, he called for comprehensive plans to promote industrial growth, tourism, and renewable energy, alongside resolving drinking water issues in affected areas.
After arrival in Keonjhar in the morning, the CM inaugurated three ambulance vehicles, including Matarani Nadia Sangraha Gadi, and Ekal Shiksha Rath aimed at promoting education.
The CM later chaired a district-level review meeting in Darbar Hall. In the afternoon, he also attended the final match of Sahani Cup Football Tournament at Keonjhar Stadium as the Chief Guest.
As per his official itinerary, the CM is scheduled to return to Bhubaneswar from Raisuan Airstrip tomorrow afternoon.