In a significant boost to India’s steel industry, Union Steel Minister HD Kumaraswamy has announced the expansion of the Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP), with work set to commence in 2026 and expected to be completed within the next four years.
The announcement came during the minister’s two-day visit to Rourkela, where he inspected the plant and inaugurated several new facilities.
During his visit, Union Minister Kumaraswamy toured the RSP and officially inaugurated key units, including Caster 4, the Pellet Plant, Coke Oven Plant, and the newly constructed Plate Mill, along with the Hot Strip Mill. These inaugurations mark a step forward in enhancing the plant’s production capabilities and efficiency.
On the evening prior to his departure, the minister held discussions with RSP officials and representatives from various labour unions. The talks focused on addressing multiple issues facing the city and finding viable solutions to ensure smooth operations and community welfare.
Speaking to the media at Rourkela Airport before boarding a special SAIL flight back to Delhi, Minister Kumaraswamy shared details of his visit and the upcoming expansion plans. He emphasised that the project would proceed with a focus on maintaining peace and order. En route, he plans to stop in Bhubaneswar to meet the Odisha Chief Minister and discuss the expansion in detail, particularly how to resolve displacement issues for affected communities and ensure the project’s harmonious implementation.
The minister’s visit was attended by prominent figures, including Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram, Raghunath Pali MLA Durga Charan Tanti, SAIL Chairman Amarendu Prakash, and RSP Director-in-Charge Alok Verma.
This expansion is poised to strengthen RSP’s role in India’s steel sector, contributing to economic growth in Odisha and beyond. Further details on the project’s scope and investments are expected following the minister’s meeting with the Chief Minister.
