Need for better infrastructure to sustain investments: CMIA calls for improved connectivity

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Adequate infrastructure and connectivity are crucial to sustain investments in the Shendra–Bidkin industrial area, the Chamber of Marathwada Industries and Agriculture (CMIA) said on Wednesday. The association stated that it has repeatedly submitted representations to the government seeking improved facilities for industries.

Addressing a press interraction, CMIA highlighted key demands including the establishment of a skill development centre and allocation of 10 acres of industrial land for an IT park project, along with measures to address law-and-order and infrastructure concerns in industrial zones. The association also raised the need to resume air services and air cargo operations, expand air connectivity with more cities, double the Manmad–Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar railway line, and improve the Pune–Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar road. CMIA further pointed to infrastructure gaps in the Shendra-Bidkin (Auric) industrial area, mobile network issues, and the rise in industrial electricity tariffs. CMIA said industries across Marathwada are already facing difficulties due to disruptions in LNG and LPG gas supply, triggered by the ongoing conflict in Gulf countries. The association has taken up the matter with the union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, the state government and relevant departments. CMIA members present included vice president Atharveshraj Nandavat, hon. Mihir Saundalgekar, treasurer Saurabh Challani, along with members Rishikesh Jaju, Rishikesh Gavli, CA Soham Kotak, and others.

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Local infrastructure woes

The association also highlighted local challenges such as poor road conditions, non-functional mobile network towers, and frequent power outages in industrial areas.

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“Strong air, rail, and road connectivity is essential to attract and retain investments. Gas supply disruptions could severely affect industries.”

– Utsav Machhar, president, CMIA