The Essar Group is preparing to develop a large-scale gas-to-chemicals refinery near Saphale in Maharashtra’s Palghar district. The proposed project will require around 1,215 hectares of land, and the local administration along with the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) has started the initial land acquisition process. The development is expected to strengthen Maharashtra’s industrial infrastructure.
MIDC Begins Initial Land Acquisition Process
MIDC Deputy Chief Executive Officer Dhananjay Sawalkar confirmed that the proposal is currently being processed. “Essar Group’s proposal for the gas-to-chemicals project is under process.” According to MIDC sources, Essar has held several meetings with the corporation and requested approximately 1,215 hectares of land across six villages: Usarni, Khatali, Dandi, Madhukar Nagar, Bhadave and Mathane. Of the total area, around 265 hectares is government-owned land, while the remaining land would need to be acquired from private landowners.
₹30,000–₹40,000 Crore Investment Planned
The proposed gas-to-chemicals project will have a capacity of approximately 7 million tons. The project has reportedly received approval from the Maharashtra government and is expected to be commissioned in phases over a period of five years. Essar is expected to invest between ₹30,000 crore and ₹40,000 crore in the project, making it a significant industrial investment in the Palghar region.
Project Balances Industrial Growth and Local Concerns
The proposed Essar refinery and gas-to-chemicals complex could create a major industrial hub in the region while supporting downstream chemical manufacturing and related infrastructure. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, if implemented, the project would represent a major addition to Maharashtra’s chemical and energy infrastructure, while its progress will depend on how effectively industrial development is balanced with environmental and community interests.
