Bhubaneswar, December 7: The establishment of a steel plant by ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel (AMNS) in Odisha’s Kendrapara district seems closer to reality with the recent notification from the revenue department prohibiting the sale, purchase, or transfer of land in Badatubi mouza. This move has rekindled hope among locals, who had feared the project might shift focus to Andhra Pradesh.
The notification outlines the initiation of land acquisition for the 383 acres required for the proposed plant. The news has brought cheer to Kendrapara residents, many of whom view the project as a long-awaited industrial milestone for the district.
“We expressed our support for the project during a public hearing. If adequate compensation is provided, we are willing to part with our land as the plant promises significant employment opportunities,” said Tushar Kant Sarddar, a former Sarpanch.
The district administration has made notable progress.
“We successfully conducted the public hearing and an expert committee meeting. The notification is a significant step forward,” said Nilu Mohapatra, Additional District Magistrate (ADM), Kendrapara.
The AMNS project initially faced uncertainty, with opposition parties criticizing the state government for allegedly failing to secure the project. However, the government stood firm, emphasizing its commitment to industrial growth in Odisha.
“Our Government is expediting processes for not only AMNS but also other projects shelved by previous administrations,” stated Industries minister Sampad Swain. He added that construction of essential infrastructure, including roads, is underway, while a detailed project report (DPR) for a railway line is being prepared. Additionally, efforts to ensure electricity availability within 18 months have commenced, with project activities set to accelerate post-environmental clearan clearance.
The Government has also applied to acquire 712.52 acres across multiple villages, including Kharnasi, Badatudi, Sanatubi, Saralikuda, and others in Mahakalpada tehsil. In the first phase, about 100 acres in Kharnasi village have been transferred to IDCO following public consultations.
“The local community is supportive and excited about the opportunities this project will bring,” said Durga Prasad Nayak, MLA of Mahakalpada.
The AMNS steel plant holds the potential to transform Kendrapara’s industrial landscape, offering hope and opportunity for economic growth in the region.
