Centre's green nod to Rs 114 cr multi-product SEZ in AP

NEW DELHI:The Centre has given environment clearance to a Rs 114 crore project that seeks to set up a multi-product special economic zone (SEZ) in Nellore district, Andhra Pradesh.

Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation Ltd ( APIIC) will develop the proposed SEZ project in 1,032.27 hectare at Naidupet in Nellore. The project will provide direct and indirect jobs to 40,000 people.

"Based on the recommendations of the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC), the Environment Ministry has given clearance to the project 'Multi product SEZ' at Naidupeta by APIIC Ltd," a senior Environment Ministry said.

The green clearance has been given subject to certain conditions to be complied during construction and operational phases of the project, the official added.

Around 20 industrial units are proposed in this SEZ. Some industrial units have already purchased the land, where as other units are to be identified.

Among the conditions specified, APIIC has been asked to ensure that there is no manufacture of automobile parts, as only assembly unit can be set up in SEZ. It has been asked to establish a Special purpose Vehicle (SPV) for implementation, monitoring and compliance of the environmental safeguards.

It has also been directed to eliminate the use of diesel generator (DG) sets for industrial operations as far as possible, and to be used only with the specific permission from the State Pollution Control Board.

SEZ is a geographical region that has economic laws which are more liberal than a country's typical economic laws. Usually, the goal of a structure is to increase foreign direct investment.