Bhubaneswar, 25 March (H.S.): Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has urged the Centre and the Odisha government to expedite the implementation of the proposed Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) project at Chandikhole in Odisha, highlighting its importance for strengthening the country’s energy security.

Pradhan has written separate letters to Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, requesting them to take necessary steps to accelerate the project’s progress.

In his letter, the Union Minister pointed out that in the current global scenario—particularly with ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and rising geopolitical uncertainties—it has become increasingly important for India to strengthen its energy security. He emphasized that expanding the country’s strategic oil storage capacity is crucial to safeguarding future energy needs.

Pradhan noted that the proposed Strategic Petroleum Reserve at Chandikhole, with a storage capacity of 4 million metric tonnes (MMT), will play a significant role in enhancing India’s preparedness to deal with supply disruptions and global oil market volatility.

He also stressed the need for swift administrative and technical action to ensure the timely completion and operationalisation of the project. According to him, the initiative will not only reinforce the country’s energy security but also boost industrial development and create employment opportunities in Odisha.

Pradhan expressed hope that with coordinated efforts between the Centre and the state government, the important project will move forward swiftly and contribute significantly to strengthening India’s energy security.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda