Three SEZ developers in Odisha awaiting extension.

Three developers of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Odisha- Vedanta Aluminium Ltd. (VAL), Saraf Agencies and Odisha Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (Idco) are awaiting extension of approvals for their projects.

The development commissioner of Falta SEZ has recommended extension of approvals of the three developers given the progress made by the developers. The matter is pending with the Board of Approvals under Union ministry of commerce & industry.

The validity of approval for VAL's sector specific SEZ at Bhurkamunda near Jharsuguda meant for manufacture and export of aluminium, will expire on May 22. The development commissioner has recommended extension for one year considering the advanced status of the project. The SEZ developer has been granted four extensions since its first approval on May 23, 2007.

VAL's 1.25 million tonne per annum (mtpa) aluminium smelter set up as a sector specific SEZ is lying idle presently for want of power. The company has already invested Rs 12,000 crore on the smelter complex.

The commissioning of VAL's multi-product SEZ at Jharsuguda has been delayed considerably due to want of state specific SEZ policy. Due to lack of the policy, various government departments were unable to extend the SEZ benefits.


BS