Paradip, Nov. 26: The Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has decided to engage more labourers to accelerate the completion of the much-delayed Paradip oil refinery project by September next year.

Every day, nearly 30,000 labourers are being engaged at the project construction site.

An additional 5,000 to 7,000 workers are going to be added shortly to complete the Rs 29,777 crore project without further delay.

“After several hold-ups, the progress of project work at present is satisfactory following amicable settlement of labour unrest. Nearly 90 per cent project work has come to an end till date. A target has been set to complete the project work by September next year,” said IOCL’s Executive Director (Projects),M. Vijaywargiya.

More than 400 engineers and officers of Indian Oil are working round the clock at the project site. Thirty-five refinery construction related companies and consultants are also on the job.

“Present engagement of labour strength of the company stands at 30,000. The company is adding up the labour force to 35,000-37,000 by 2012 end,” said the executive director in charge of the project.

Paradip oil refinery is the first zero-residue refinery of the country. The major products will be liquified petroleum gas, naptha, motor spirit, diesel and sulphur.

“The successful commissioning of oil refinery project holds the key to economic growth of the region. The state government is intent on clearing the project’s hurdles,” said additional district magistrate, Surajit Das.