Decks cleared for ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel’s Chhattisgarh- Andhra iron ore slurry pipeline
ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India is a joint venture between two of the world’s largest steelmakers
By Newsmeter Network
Amaravati : Union Ministry of Steel has given nod to ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AMNS India) to set up an iron ore slurry pipeline from Chhattisgarh to Andhra Pradesh via Odisha.
This pipeline would be used to transport iron ore from the mines to AMNS’ steel plant being set up in Anakapalle, Andhra Pradesh. This approval has been accorded under the Petroleum and Minerals Pipelines (Acquisition of Right of User in Land) Act, 1962, which empowers a nominated authority to sanction the right of way for each of the areas through which the pipeline will pass.
The proposed slurry pipeline will transport iron ore in slurry form from Chhattisgarh to Andhra Pradesh, creating a sustainable and cost-efficient logistics corridor that will significantly reduce dependency on road and rail transport. The project represents a major step toward low-carbon, environmentally responsible industrial logistics, aligning with India’s commitment to green infrastructure.
The timely clearance underscores the Centre’s commitment to accelerating industrial growth in Andhra Pradesh and reflects the strong partnership between the State and Union Governments in driving India’s manufacturing ambitions.
This approval paves the way for the implementation of the 17 MTPA integrated steel plant (with 8.2 MTPA in the first phase) being developed by AMNS India at Anakapalle, Andhra Pradesh. The Anakapalle facility will be one of the largest greenfield steel plants in India, equipped with state-of-the-art technology for energy efficiency, water recycling, and carbon footprint reduction.
Last week, the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) had already recommended environmental clearance for the first phase (8.2 MTPA) of the project. With both environmental and pipeline approvals now in place, the Anakapalle project is set to move swiftly into the implementation stage — reinforcing Andhra Pradesh’s position as a top destination for global industrial investments.
About ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel (AMNS):
ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India is a joint venture between two of the world’s largest steelmakers — ArcelorMittal, the global leader in steel manufacturing with operations in over 60 countries and annual crude steel production exceeding 60 million tonnes, and Nippon Steel Corporation, Japan’s largest steel producer with cutting-edge technology and R&D leadership.
Globally, ArcelorMittal operates an integrated value chain spanning mining, steelmaking, and downstream manufacturing, with a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability. Its products serve critical sectors such as automotive, construction, infrastructure, renewable energy, and engineering.
In India, AMNS has emerged as one of the fastest-growing integrated steel producers, with major operations in Gujarat, Odisha, and Maharashtra. The company’s planned investment in Andhra Pradesh represents a multi-billion-dollar commitment to India’s steel capacity expansion, contributing to the national goal of achieving 300 MTPA steel production by 2030.
Andhra Pradesh HRD, IT, Electronics, and RTGS minister Nara Lokesh stated that this milestone is “a testament to Andhra Pradesh’s leadership in providing world-class infrastructure, speedy clearances, and proactive governance. The AMNS project will generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, boost local industry, and strengthen India’s position in the global steel supply chain.”
The State Government reaffirmed that it remains fully committed to facilitating all clearances and providing the necessary support to ensure the timely commencement of the project’s construction phase.