State’s first eco-friendly industrial area in Aurangabad soon: Ahir

The state’s first eco-industrial area would come up in Aurangabad soon and the work will start in 2-3 months. Minister of State for Industries and Environment Sachin Ahir,here to attend some social functions,said,“The plan has been approved by cabinet and will be executed within 2-3 months. Only eco-friendly projects will get a place in this industrial area.”

He said,“We can’t predict how long it will take to complete the project.” “Our industrial policy stresses promotion of eco-friendly units and we are coming up with new ideas,” he said. Old units in Aurangabad MIDC will also be upgraded to meet pollution norms,he added.

He also said the state government had revised its policy of acquiring land for expansion of industrial areas. The state will not acquire agriculture land but will opt for barren land. State will not put pressure on people for land acquisition. Ahir said 15 per cent share of developed land will have to go to the owner.

Ahir,who also visited the newest landmark in town,the Prozone Aurangabad Shopping Centre,said malls can offer tremendous job opportunities to local people as the retail sector needs minimum skills. He said shopping centres should thus be promoted across the state.