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Manjhi Calls For Revival Of Wazirganj Steel Plant, Rekindles Bihar’s Industrial Hopes

Swarnadwip Nath Published Aug 23, 2025, 06:16 PM Updated Sep 16, 2026, 06:10 AM

Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi has reignited calls for the revival of the long-abandoned steel processing plant in Wazirganj, Gaya, during his address at a public event in Bodh Gaya on August 22, 2025. The plant, originally sanctioned during the tenure of Ram Vilas Paswan in UPA-I, has remained dormant for over 15 years despite its potential to transform the region’s industrial landscape. Manjhi’s appeal comes amid renewed focus on infrastructure development and employment generation in Bihar’s Magadh region.

Historical Context And Project Status

The Wazirganj steel processing plant was one of two facilities approved for Bihar in 2008, the other being in Bettiah
While the Bettiah plant is operational, the Wazirganj unit never progressed beyond the foundation stone ceremony held on December 8, 2008
Manjhi highlighted the disparity and urged the central government to prioritize its revival, citing the region’s strategic location and skilled labor potential

Strategic Importance For Magadh Region

The plant is expected to boost industrial activity in Gaya and surrounding districts, which have historically lagged in manufacturing infrastructure
It could serve as a feeder unit for larger steel clusters and support ancillary industries such as fabrication, logistics, and machinery servicing
Revival of the plant would align with the government’s broader push for industrial corridors and rural employment schemes

Infrastructure Developments In Support

Manjhi praised recent infrastructure initiatives in Magadh, including the 1,300-acre industrial cluster in Gaya and the Sone Nagar–Gaya corridor
He also cited the Rs 3,000 crore thermal power project in Nabinagar with a 2,400 MW capacity, which could provide reliable energy for industrial operations
The modernization of Gaya railway station and daily Air India flights to Delhi were mentioned as enablers for logistics and connectivity

Political Messaging And Special Status Debate

In a pointed remark, Manjhi stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s development efforts in Bihar have exceeded what special status would have delivered
He positioned the revival of the Wazirganj plant as a symbol of inclusive development and a response to long-standing regional neglect
The speech also touched on cultural and environmental projects, including the Vishnupad Corridor and the Falgu-Sone river linking, which he claimed lifted the mythical curse of Goddess Sita on the Falgu

Public Sentiment And Local Expectations

Residents and local leaders have welcomed Manjhi’s push, viewing it as a long-overdue step toward industrial empowerment
Youth groups and trade unions have called for a detailed project roadmap, including timelines, funding sources, and employment guarantees
There is growing anticipation that the central government may respond with a feasibility study or revival package in the upcoming budget cycle

Conclusion

Jitan Ram Manjhi’s renewed call for the revival of the Wazirganj steel processing plant has brought fresh attention to Bihar’s industrial aspirations. As infrastructure projects gain momentum across Magadh, the reactivation of this long-stalled facility could serve as a catalyst for regional growth, job creation, and economic diversification. Whether the government acts on this appeal remains to be seen, but the message is clear: Bihar is ready to reclaim its place on India’s industrial map.

Sources: Times of India, Hindustan Times Bihar Edition, Business Standard.

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