Bhubaneswar, 28 April (H.S.): On the occasion of the birth anniversary of ‘Utkal Gourav’ Madhusudan Das, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a major infrastructure push for Kendujhar district by laying the foundation stone of a 420/220 kV grid substation at Uchhabali in the Barbil region.

The ambitious project, with an investment of ₹1,647 crore, is aimed at strengthening power infrastructure and accelerating industrial development in the mineral-rich district. The Chief Minister reiterated his vision of transforming Kendujhar into the “second Jamshedpur of eastern India.”

Alongside the substation, five new transmission lines were also inaugurated. The project is expected to benefit over 7 lakh consumers across Kendujhar Sadar, Telkoi, Jhumpura, Joda, and Barbil by ensuring reliable and uninterrupted power supply.

Highlighting the importance of quality electricity in a developed society, the Chief Minister said the government is committed to turning Kendujhar into a “Golden Kendujhar” by leveraging its rich mineral resources.

He further elaborated that the region will be integrated into a robust power network through 400 kV lines, including connections via TTPS–Joda and Turumunga–Rairangpur corridors, ensuring a balance between industrial and domestic energy demand.

In a significant technological upgrade, the state will introduce ‘hotline maintenance’, enabling repair work without power cuts, thereby minimizing disruptions for consumers.

Emphasizing modernization, the Chief Minister said Odisha is moving towards digital power management. The State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC) at Mancheswar will act as the “heart” of the power system, while advanced remote monitoring systems will allow real-time management of over 70 grid stations.

He noted that the number of electricity consumers in the state has grown from 16 lakh in 2000 to nearly 1 crore today. To meet rising demand, 34 new grid substations will be established across Odisha by 2036, including plans for 765 kV grids in key districts.

Reaffirming his commitment, the Chief Minister said Kendujhar, which has long contributed to the state’s prosperity, now deserves focused development. He also highlighted ongoing projects such as the Barbil ring road and proposed mega steel plant. Japan-based JFE Steel has been invited to set up a facility in the district for producing advanced electrical steel.

Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s development model, he said India is progressing towards energy self-reliance through solar, wind, and nuclear power, and Odisha is committed to extending these benefits to every household.

Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo stated that the expansion of the power network will also benefit nearby regions like Sundargarh and Angul, with a goal to ensure electricity access in all remote areas.

The event was attended by MP Ananta Nayak, MLA Fakir Mohan Nayak, and other public representatives, along with senior officials and local residents.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda