Sustainable Future for Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Ltd: Assam CM's Vision

Chief Minister's Commitment to BCPL's Sustainability

Dibrugarh, June 18: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced that his government is focused on establishing a long-term solution to ensure the sustainability of Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Ltd (BCPL) without relying on government funding.

During the final day of his three-day tour in Upper Assam, Sarma addressed the media, stating, "We are facing numerous challenges and have been actively discussing them."

He emphasized that the project would face closure without government support, noting, "Both the central and state governments are currently providing assistance, but we must seek a lasting resolution."

BCPL, the largest petrochemical facility in the Northeast, was inaugurated in January 2016 under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.

This plant is responsible for producing and distributing various high-quality polymer grades throughout the nation, with GAIL (India) Limited as its primary shareholder marketing the products.

Sarma mentioned that the company has requested land in Paradip, Odisha, and the state government is working to secure it.

"By replacing the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) with Assam Police for site security, we can save approximately Rs 8-9 crore, and we have issued directives to facilitate this change. We are also negotiating with a group to manufacture finished products locally, which will bolster the industry," he added.

The Lepetkata project in Dibrugarh is a result of the 1985 Assam Accord, aimed at promoting socio-economic growth across the northeastern region.

When questioned about the timeline for elections for various autonomous councils, Sarma confirmed that the Bodoland Territorial Council elections are scheduled for September.

This will be succeeded by the Silchar Municipal Corporation elections in October, followed by elections for the Mising and Sonowal autonomous councils in November and December.

Regarding the elections for Mottock and Moran autonomous bodies, Sarma indicated that amendments to existing laws are necessary to ensure that only members of the respective communities can participate in the voting process.

"The cabinet will soon approve these amendments. Given the sensitivity of these issues, we prefer to proceed cautiously to avoid any complications," the Chief Minister concluded.