Articles
Angul is one of the Odisha’s most prominent industrial districts. With its rich mineral resources and strategic location, several large-scale industries operate in the region and play a crucial role in both the state and national economies.
Angul, located in the heart of Odisha, has evolved into one of the state’s most prominent industrial districts. With its rich mineral resources and strategic location, several large-scale industries operate in the region and play a crucial role in both the state and national economies. From aluminium production to power generation and coal mining, Angul’s industrial landscape showcases a dynamic blend of heavy industries and modern infrastructure.
NALCO – The Pride of India’s Aluminium Sector The National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), a blue-chip public sector enterprise, stands as Asia’s largest integrated Bauxite-Alumina-Aluminium complex. NALCO established its aluminium smelter in 1984, with a capacity of 2.18 lakh tonnes per annum, and its 720 MW captive power plant has transformed the town of Angul into a bustling industrial hub. Situated about 5 km from Angul town along National Highway 42, the modern township of Nalco Nagar houses the company’s workforce and facilities. NALCO manufactures primary aluminium in various forms such as ingots, wire rods, billets, sow moulds, and strips. The company exports its products to more than 30 countries, while also holding around 30% of India’s domestic aluminium market.
NTPC – Powering the Nation from Kanhia The National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), India’s leading power producer, operates a 1000 MW Super Thermal Power Station at Kanhia, about 60 km from Angul. The NTPC Kanhia unit, with its dedicated township for over 1,500 employees, plays a pivotal role in meeting the region’s growing energy demands while contributing significantly to the national power grid.
MCL – The Coal Heart of Odisha Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited, has its headquarters in Talcher, roughly 20 km from Angul. Talcher, one of India’s most productive coal mining regions, hosts major mines such as the Dera and Balanda Collieries. South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) previously managed MCL, which has since become a cornerstone of India’s coal supply, fueling numerous industries and thermal power stations across the nation.
FCI – The Fertiliser Industry’s Legacy The Fertiliser Corporation of India (FCI) once operated a major unit in Talcher, one of the oldest industrial establishments in the area. Despite its initial success, due to operational challenges, the plant has remained closed since 1998. However, the township and existing infrastructure still stand, representing the region’s industrial heritage and holding potential for future revival.
HWP – The Heavy Water Plant The Heavy Water Plant (HWP), in Talcher, is a prestigious Government of India undertaking under the Department of Atomic Energy. It contributes to the nation’s nuclear energy program by producing heavy water, a key component in atomic power generation.
TTPS – Reviving Power through NTPC The Talcher Thermal Power Station (TTPS), one of Odisha’s earliest power generation units, faced severe operational setbacks in the past. However, after NTPC took over the plant in 1998, it underwent significant modernisation and now operates efficiently once again. Its revival marks a successful example of industrial rejuvenation in the region.
The industrial landscape of Angul and its surrounding areas, like Talcher and Kanhia, forms the backbone of Odisha’s economic development. With major players such as NALCO, NTPC, and MCL driving production, the district stands as a powerhouse of energy, minerals, and manufacturing. As modernisation and expansion continue, Angul remains a symbol of industrial progress and resilience in eastern India.