Pharma co's Gujarat SEZ plan runs into hurdle

A pharmaceutical group's plans to set up a special economic zone in Gujarat has run into a green hurdle with the Centre seeking additional details on environmental norms.

A Union environment ministry's expert appraisal panel felt that the project proponent, CPL Infrastructure Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd, had failed to give requisite details for the proposed park in Dhandhuka Taluka in Ahmedabad.

The panel for New Construction Projects and Industrial Estates also asked the project proponent to seek a separate CRZ clearance under CRZ notification in case if it plans to dispose effluents in the sea in the region.

"Besides, the panel has also asked the firm to seek separate permission for the 50 MW captive power plant from the competent authority as per EIA Notification, 2006," a senior official said.

Details on energy conservation plan, processing and non-processing zone, provision for separate truck yard/ truck servicing station, petrol pump and other essential services have been sought from the project proponent.

"The proposal shall be considered only after the above observations are addressed and submitted for reconsideration," the panel said.

The firm expects to spend around Rs.150 crore (Rs 1.5 billion) in building infrastructure and hopes to attract investment to the tune of Rs 5,000 crore (Rs 50 billion) and create employment for around 8000 people once the SEZ becomes operational.