Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (AF)

Mangalore, Dec 27: State chief secretary P B Mahishi has termed the city as 'best suited to both SEZ and Petroleum Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region (PCPIR) projects' and cited confusion among people as the reason for opposition to the projects in the region.

Speaking at a press conference at New Mangalore Port Trust (NMPT) guest house here Wednesday December 27, Mahishi said that the projects will not be terminated and expressed his hope that the people will accept the development works gradually.

He further said that there were three other states vying for the PCPIR project but it was given to Karnataka as ONGC is undertaking the project.

Regarding acquision of fertile land, he said that only 26 per cent of the total land are selected for the projects was cultivable and the rest wasteland. A compensation of Rs 23.5 lac and a job for each family will be offered for those who give up their land for the projects, he added.

Earlier, Mahishi had a meeting at NMPT regarding ways to enhance business, connectivity and transport of goods from hinterland. Discussions were also held with railways officials on providing bulk handling of goods.