Dow may be told to quit R&D project

American chemical giant Dow Chemical may be asked to quit its research and development (R&D) facility at Vasuli-Shinde village in Pune district, Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan indicated today.

Members belonging to both the ruling and Opposition parties demanded a calling-attention motion on this issue in the state assembly today. Replying to the debate, Chavan said, “There are no differences in the ruling coalition over the issue, as has been claimed by the Opposition. The decision will be taken at the earliest.” Water Resources Minister Ajit Pawar added: “The government will take a decision before the end of this year. I assure you that it will be a positive one and according to your expectations.”

The CM also assured that cases filed against many agitators against the project would be withdrawn.

Dow Chemical had signed an MoU with the state government last August to construct the R&D centre at an investment of $100 million. The company was allotted 100 acres land at Vasuli-Shinde village. The construction began earlier this year. However, trouble started when Warkari, a religious sect with mass following, joined the agitating villagers. Warkaris and villagers fear that the facility will pollute the area.