Idco to prepare DPR for Rs 15k cr helicopter unit

L&T Construction also keen on similar project

The state's nodal agency for land acquisition and industrial infrastructure development-Odisha Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (Idco) is set to prepare the detailed project report (DPR) for a helicopter manufacturing and assembly unit proposed by US-based Alcor Inc. The project is estimated to cost Rs 15,000 crore.

"The state government has examined various aspects of the proposal submitted by Alcor. A meeting was held at the chief secretary level. Accordingly, it has been decided that Idco will prepare the DPR for the project," industries minister Debi Prasad Mishra said in a written reply to the state assembly.

The minister said a similar proposal has also been received from L&T Construction Company. The proposals by Alcor and L&T Construction will be deliberated in April, he added.

For Alcor's project, Idco has identified locations like Naraj (Cuttack) and Gopalpur in south Odisha. The facility proposed by Alcor Inc has promised employment for around 5,000 people in a span of seven years. Alcor Inc is a family owned business that has been in operations since 1957.

A leader in the world of exhaust gas temperature (EGT), cylinder head temperature (CHT) and turbine inlet temperature (TIT) sensor development, Alcor is recommended by the most well-known original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of both digital engine monitors and aircraft. Alcor sensors are compatible with the vast majority of engine monitors, from the classic analogue instrumentation to the most current glass panel systems.

If the company's proposal comes through, it would be the first such manufacturing facility for helicopters in Odisha.

Presently, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has an engine division at Koraput for manufacture of aero engines. The HAL facility is engaged in the production of nuts and bolts to discs, shafts, blades, forgings and castings - all needed to make an aero engine.