Hazira becomes state's industrial hub

Hazira, an area 16 kms from Surat, was just like any other village until a few years back.

Today it is one of the most sought-after destinations for setting up industries.

Surat itself is a fast developing city, but the development in Hazira has been phenomenal. At present, Hazira is home to several major corporate houses, including Reliance, Essar Steel, Essar Power, L&T, NTPC, Kribhco, ONGC, GAIL, IOC, HPCL, BPCL and IBP.

Oil and gas major Shell has recently started its LNG terminal at Hazira.

Cairn Energy has also started operations here. Several other multinational companies have evinced interest and are likely to set up industries in Hazira in the next two to three years.

Investments worth of billions of rupees have been made in the area in various industries and the amount is likely to go up with many more coprporates eyeing the region. Hazira is becoming the hub of industrial activity in the state.

There are different reasons behind this. Joint commissioner of industries, DIC, R N Kapadia, said it is due to the positive and industry-friendly approach of the state government that so many major industries are coming to Hazira.

Kapadia said, "The government has gone all out to attract industrial houses. Gujarat has an excellent environment for trade and industry and the government has made the companies realise this."

Kapadia said, "Hazira's strategic location, its proximity to both Surat and Mumbai, two major trade centres of the country, has played an important role in its development."

Another reason behind the quick development in the belt is the Hazira Port. "Big companies require a port and the port at Hazira just makes it an ideal location for industries," said Kapadia.

Kapadia said the coastal area of Hazira, which is ideal for oil and gas exploration, is also a major reason behind the belt's development.

Kapadia said the government is not providing any special incentive to the companies in the area.