(PTI)
Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has sought Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s assistance for setting up a Rs 750-crore ethanol plant in Bargarh district, as part of measures to promote eco-friendly alternative fuel. The plant is proposed to be set up by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) at Baulsingha in the district, he said. BPCL has already appointed Project Management Consultant for early commencement of developmental activities at the site.
To support the Centre’s Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme, Oil PSUs have decided to set up 12 Second Generation (2G) ethanol bio-refineries in 11 states, as an effective tool for development of rural economy. The programme is being implemented to promote the use of alternative and environment-friendly fuels. BPCL had requested the state government through the Industrial Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha (IPICOL) for allocation of land in November, 2016.
“Even after elapse of almost one year, land allotment for the project is yet to be done. This is adversely affecting the project, which is being pursued in the interest of the people of Odisha,” a statement from the Petroleum ministry said