Bengal's Infra must develop to expedite export growth: ICC Study

Kolkata, Dec 12 (UNI) Food Processing, Agro-based industries, marine products, gems and jewellery have huge export potential in West Bengal if infrastructural facilities are revamped in a major way, according to a study by Indian Chamber of Commerce.

The study, which was released today in a programme organised by the chamber, said, ''Adequate infrastructures like modern facilities in land ports, seaports, improved cargo handling facilities and airports should be developed. Lack of these infrastructural facilities lead to delayed shipments and more turnaround times.'' ICC report said that some of the leading exporters have expressed the need for all weather roads linking industrial and raw material centres of the state to airports and sea-ports.

The study also suggested that Public-Private Partnership should be followed to reate additional social infrastructure.

''Export industries should be granted the status of "Public Utility Service" and exempted from bandhs,'' it mentioned.

It recommended that the state government should ensure unhindered growth of various sectors like food processing, agro industries and provide them with all necessary fiscal and administrative support.

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