Traders oppose cancellation of plot allotment

Amritsar, February 17

The owners of vacant industrial plots at the Focal Point are against the move of the state government to cancel the allotment. They say that it will discourage the traders from investing in the state.

Around three months ago, Industry and Commerce Minister Sunder Sham Arora had announced that the state government would cancel the allotment of industrial plots lying vacant so that the same could be given to those interested in setting up units. The plot holders were issued notices and asked to reply within 30 days.

Industrialist associations have written to Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation Limited (PSIECL) Managing Director Rajat Aggarwal, stating that they haven’t received information regarding the cancellation of allotment. Also their queries are not being answered. They rued that on the other hand the entire work at the PSIEC related to passing of maps and plot transfer had come to a standstill.

FPIA president Darshan Singh Goraya called upon the state government to take a lenient view keeping in view the “discouraging” business scenario. “The decision related to cancellation of industrial plots will further discourage investors to establish units in the state. Even if the corporation plans to do so, a minimum compensation worth Rs 7,000 per square yard should be given to the owners of the plots,” he added.

An industrialist, Raman Malhotra, said, “The trade scenario has been affected due to demonetisation and the GST.”

Industrialists are also concerned over the non-availability of basic amenities such as proper sewerage, regular power supply and potable drinking water in industrial areas. — TNS