Revival of closed fertiliser units

New Delhi, Dec 7 (UNI) The Rajya Sabha was today informed that pursuant to a decision taken on April 12, 2007, the Government has initiated the process of examining the feasibility of revival of the closed fertiliser units of HFC and FCI, (including Durgapur, Talcher, Barauni and Ramagundam) subject to the confirmed availability of gas.

Minister of State for Chemicals&Fertilisers B K Handique in a written reply said that specifically, Rashtriya Chemicals&Fertilisers (RCF) has shown interest in the Durgapur and Tacher Units; National Fertilisers Ltd (NFL) has shown interest in Barauni and Ramagundam Units; and Krishak Bharati Cooperative Ltd (KRIBHCO) has shown interest in the Gorakhpur Unit.

The revival process of the closed units is in the stage of examination and preparation of techno-ecnomic feasibility reports.

Therefore, at this stage, it is not feasible to indicate a definite time schedule for finalisation of tender or for commencement of construction work.

In reply to another question the Minister said, Government has recently granted authorisation to GAIL for laying Jagdishpur-Haldia pipeline. In terms of the authorisation issued, the pipeline must be commissioned within 36 months from the date of the start of the project.

Further, the fertiliser companies willing to revive the closed units in this sector are already in discussion with GAIL for firm commitment/agreement for connectivity and gas availability. No agreement has been finalised yet, Mr Handique added.

UNI