In order to encourage textile processing parks with marine discharge facilities in Tamil Nadu’s coastal regions, the Southern India Mills Association (SIMA) planned two parks in 2005 and 2015. The two projects are still not working.
An industry source mentioned that they are hopeful for a solution soon and that efforts are underway to address the challenges faced by the two projects.
In 2005, the Central and State Governments provided financial backing for the proposal of a 237-acre park near Cuddalore. Ten or so sizable textile units were to establish facilities and release treated wastewater into the ocean. According to the source, “this is the workable solution, and textile companies are still interested in investing in the project.” The project was authorised by the Central Government under the Integrated Textile Park Scheme.
SIPCOT provided land for a 250-acre park that was planned for the Ramanathapuram district. In 2015, the Tamil Nadu Government and the SIMA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the two parks. It aimed to create 15,000 indirect jobs and 10,000 direct jobs at an investment of US $ 6 million apiece. Nearly 400 tonnes might be processed daily by the two plants.
Despite having all the necessary Government clearances, the Cuddalore project was unable to proceed due to local opposition. According to the source, there had been no improvement at the Ramanathapuram park.
