Thiruvananthapuram : Kerala is role model for BJP and Non-BJP ruled states in terms of implementing Centre-funded projects, said Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan.
The Union Minister was referring to successful completion of GAIl project, at a meeting held Thursday.
Pradhan thanked the CM Pinarayi Vijayan for lending support to laying of Gail’s Natural Gas pipeline. Completion of Gail project is a remarkable feat at national level, Pradhan told CM.
The Petroleum Minister went on to assure CM that, necessary steps will be taken to reach natural gas connections to households of Ernakulum via city project. The supply shall be expanded to districts of Pathanamthitta, Idukki and Kottayam, he said.
The Centre shall also install more number of CNG stations, the minister said. Buses fuelled by natural gas should be encouraged, Pradhan told CM.
Pinarayi requested Centre initiative to resolve crisis surrounding SAIL-SCL Kerala Ltd, the joint venture between Kerala Govt and Steel Authority of India. Setting up retail chain in the state can tide over the crisis, suggested Pinarayi.
Production at SAIL-SCL Ltd has come to a standstill owing to procurement and marketing issues. Ironically, there is huge demand for TMT bars in the state, the CM said.
The Company’s loss stems from sale of TMT bars at wholesale rates. Brand outlets across the state could offer remedy to this, Pinarayi said.
The govt has decided to utilize land belonging FACT to setup a petrochemical park at Kochi. Centre’s move in this direction is much sought, the chief minister said.
The byproducts from BPCL could serve as raw material for the the petrochemical complex. “However, “ said the CM expressing concern, “the privatization of BPCL could hamper the project.”
The two ministers met at Chief Minister's Office in the capital, Thursday evening.
