HPCL Mittal Energy Limited (HMEL) announced an investment of ₹2,600 crore at the Guru Gobind Singh Refinery in Bathinda, Punjab. The investment will support the development of polypropylene downstream industries and fine chemical projects, strengthening the refinery’s industrial footprint.
Strengthening India’s Polypropylene Hub
Highlighting the refinery’s strategic importance, Prabh Das, Managing Director and CEO of HMEL, said the Guru Gobind Singh Refinery has positioned Punjab as a major polypropylene manufacturing hub in India. Currently, the refinery meets nearly 14 percent of the country’s total polypropylene demand and has operated continuously without disruption for several years.
Expanding Beyond Fuels into Fine Chemicals
In addition to producing petrol, diesel, and gas, HMEL is now expanding its focus toward
higher-value industrial activities. According to Das, the planned fine chemical projects in Bathinda will further diversify the refinery’s portfolio and enhance value addition within the state.
Significant Economic Contribution to Punjab
The refinery, commissioned in 2011, spans nearly 2,000 acres and generates an annual business turnover of approximately ₹90,000 crore. The facility contributes around ₹2,100 crore annually in tax revenue to the state exchequer and accounts for nearly 5–6 percent of India’s total petrol and diesel production.
Industrial Ecosystem Development
To further promote plastic manufacturing, the Punjab government is considering the development of a dedicated plastic industrial park near Ludhiana. The state has also assured HMEL of time-bound approvals for its expansion plans. Additionally, the licensing process for setting up petrol pumps has been simplified, with approvals now issued within two days.
Multi-Fuel Infrastructure and Renewable Push
Looking ahead, HMEL plans to establish multi-fuel petrol pumps across Punjab, offering petrol, diesel, CNG, and electric vehicle charging facilities on land parcels ranging from 0.5 to 2 acres. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, the state government is actively focusing on renewable energy, which is expected to further enhance industrial competitiveness and attract future investments.
