In a major boost to India’s energy security, the Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited (ISPRL) project at Chandikhol in Odisha has achieved a critical milestone with the successful handover of earmarked land for construction.
This development signals the transition from planning to active implementation for one of the country’s most ambitious strategic energy initiatives.
Approximately one year after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on April 8, 2025, between ISPRL and the Government of Odisha in New Delhi, the project has now gained significant momentum. The facility will feature underground rock cavern crude oil storage with a capacity of 4.00 million metric tonnes, supported by an onshore pipeline from Paradip and a proposed offshore Single Point Mooring (SPM) terminal. With an estimated investment of Rs. 4,377.46 crore, it is poised to become India’s largest strategic crude oil storage project, seamlessly integrated with the existing Indian Oil Corporation pipeline network connecting Haldia, Paradip, and Barauni refineries.
The timely land handover reflects exceptional coordination and proactive governance at the highest levels. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi played a pivotal role by personally monitoring progress through regular bi-monthly reviews, ensuring swift approvals and clearances. Under his guidance, critical preparatory activities—including land survey, boundary demarcation, and pillar posting—were completed efficiently.
One of the key challenges overcome was the presence of illegal quarries on the project site. Through the Chief Minister’s direct intervention, 13 illegal quarries were closed, securing the area and enabling the project to move forward without further delays. Construction activities are now expected to commence shortly, keeping the project on schedule.
This achievement holds immense significance for both Odisha and the nation. At a time when global supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions underscore the need for energy resilience, the Chandikhol facility will serve as a vital strategic buffer, enhancing India’s ability to withstand future oil supply shocks while positioning Odisha as a key hub for national petroleum infrastructure.
Leading industry associations in the state—CII, FICCI, ASSOCHAM, and Utkal Chamber of Commerce & Industry Ltd. (UCCI)—have extended their heartfelt gratitude to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to driving this strategically important project.
With land formally handed over and preparatory work completed, the ISPRL Chandikhol project marks a decisive step in strengthening India’s energy security and reinforcing Odisha’s emergence as a preferred destination for large-scale strategic investments.
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