Mumbai, March 18 Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Tuesday that the state government will introduce a comprehensive policy to ensure that local industries benefit from the ash generated in thermal power plants, thereby fostering industrial growth.
"In 2016, the state government had formulated a policy allocating 20 per cent of the ash for local industries and 80 per cent for auction. However, as per the Central government's notification, 100 per cent of the ash must now be auctioned. To support local industries, the government will frame a new policy that aligns with this directive while ensuring their growth," he told the Assembly to a query raised by legislators Nana Patole, Vijay Wadettiwar and Prakash Solanke.
CM Fadnavis emphasised that in areas where ash is readily available but remains unprocessed, industries based on ash utilisation can be developed.
To encourage such industries, subsidies will be provided, and the policy will be implemented within one month, he said.
The policy will be designed to ensure local industries are not disadvantaged and receive due benefits, he added.
As per the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change guidelines, the ash from thermal power plants is sold through auctions, CM Fadnavis said.
However, irregularities in certain auction processes have been observed, and strict action will be taken against those responsible, he added.
The state government will investigate cases of delayed auctioning, take action against defaulters, and seize illegal stockpiles while filing criminal cases against those involved in unauthorised transportation, the Chief Minister said.
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