Ten years ago the district of Jharsuguda was dreaming of becoming one of the most advanced industrial hubs in the country but now it looks to be a smokescreen.
This has become burning topic among politicians, intellectuals, civil forums and the general public in the region.
Years ago, everybody here saw a number of industries were flocking the district and many more were making a beeline. Property prices soared and the predominantly economically backward district was looking at a promising future. As per the State’s economic survey report, undoubtedly the situation has improved as the per-capita income of the district is rated the highest in the State. However, the survival of many industries in the district is under question now.
For example, multinational aluminium company at Jharsuguda Vedanta set up in 2006 is now finding it difficult to make its business viable in the region. likewise, other small and large companies are facing the same situation.
According to industrial experts here, this industrial downfall is because of unavailability of raw material and coal along with the reduced demand of their products in the market. It is compelling these units to sell their products on marginal profits and sometimes even less than their cost of production. Unsurprisingly, companies are exploring job cuts and also reluctant to generate new employment opportunities in the region. Vendor payments are also being delayed and long term investments for social welfare work in the community are also ruled out.
A top official of a company here said that companies earlier were not only paying a handsome salary but also giving bonus to the employees. In addition, the companies were also forthcoming in supporting the community and institutions through philanthropic donations and sponsorships. But now, this has changed, he said, adding that when the companies are undergoing a crisis, they are not able to get support from any corner.
“Situation is constantly deteriorating and even salaries are being delayed. To make the matters worse, people with vested interest are colluding with various local institutions and organisations and fixing strikes, rallies, and filing bogus complaints which may eventually lead to the shutting down of the plants. In such a scenario, thousands of people would be rendered unemployed and many more whose livelihood depends upon the local industry, would be adversely impacted,” he told.