BJP MP Shamik Bhattacharya has urged the West Bengal government to take swift steps to secure a large-scale chemical park under the Centre’s Rs 3,030-crore ‘BHAVYA Rasayan’ scheme, calling it a “historic opportunity” for the state’s industrial growth.
In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, Bhattacharya emphasised that West Bengal must act quickly and present a strong proposal before other states move ahead in the competitive selection process. He noted that the Union Cabinet, on July 24, approved the setting up of three modern chemical parks across the country through a “challenge route,” with a maximum central grant of Rs 1,000 crore for each project.
Highlighting potential locations, the MP suggested Singur as a viable option, provided land-related disputes are avoided. He also identified Haldia, Raghunathpur and Durgapur as strategic alternatives, while clarifying that the state government is free to choose any suitable, controversy-free site meeting infrastructure requirements. As per the scheme guidelines, the state must identify at least 2,000 acres of contiguous land and contribute Rs 500 crore.
Bhattacharya stated that securing the project could unlock not only central funding but also attract substantial domestic and foreign private investments in the future. He added that the project could lead to the development of infrastructure worth at least Rs 1,500 crore through joint efforts of the Centre and the state.
The MP underlined the broader economic benefits, noting that the proposed chemical park would generate employment across sectors such as chemicals, construction, logistics and MSMEs. He said industries including textiles, pharmaceuticals, electronics, automobiles and agriculture would benefit both directly and indirectly. The project would also enable the creation of modern waste management systems and Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETP).
Referring to the Centre’s push for industrial expansion, Bhattacharya noted that the government is also encouraging investments in emerging sectors like semiconductors. In this context, he pointed out that the Chief Minister has expressed interest in attracting investments from the Tata Group in the semiconductor space.
To expedite the process, the MP proposed four key measures for the state government: formation of an inter-departmental task force involving the Industries Department and WBIDC, preparation of documentation for 2,000 acres of dispute-free land, allocation of the Rs 500 crore state contribution in the upcoming budget, and close coordination with the Union Ministry of Chemicals and Petrochemicals.
Bhattacharya also assured full cooperation in facilitating coordination with the Centre for the initiative. Copies of his letter have been sent to State Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta, Industries Minister Tapas Roy, and the state’s Industry Secretary.
The proposal is expected to intensify discussions around industrialization in West Bengal, as the state weighs its options to secure a place in the Centre’s ambitious chemical park programme.
By Pranab Mondal
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