Jaipur, April 10: Former Chief Minister Ashok Gahlot has leveled serious allegations against the current government regarding the Pachpadra Refinery Project. He criticized the handling of this project, claiming that continuous delays have significantly increased its costs.
Gahlot stated that the initial cost of the project was approximately ₹37,229 crores, which has now escalated to nearly ₹80,000 crores. He attributed this increase to poor planning and delays caused by political reasons. He referred to it as a prime example of developmental delays, dubbing it a “mega chapter of waiting.”
The former Chief Minister accused the BJP government of deliberately delaying the project, which has placed an additional financial burden on the state’s residents. He noted that around 80% of the project was completed during the Congress government’s tenure, but progress halted afterward.
Gahlot also pointed out that these delays have negatively impacted Rajasthan’s economy and job opportunities for youth. He questioned why the BJP has been so indifferent to the state’s development.
Recalling the project’s inception, he mentioned that it was conceptualized in 2008 during the Congress government. Initial discussions began with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, although the company was initially hesitant. The project received approval after intervention from then-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, who laid its foundation with the aim of strengthening Rajasthan’s energy sector.
Gahlot claimed that after the change of government, political factors hindered the project, slowing down its progress. He alleged that this has adversely affected this crucial project and the state’s development.
He noted that the project was stalled for several years, and the Congress party had to organize multiple protests. It was only after mounting pressure that the BJP resumed work on it in 2018.
Reflecting on his administration, Gahlot stated that when Congress returned to power, the project was prioritized. He asserted that despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, work continued steadily, and nearly 80% of the project was completed during his tenure.
He emphasized that the delays have directly impacted employment and economic growth. According to Gahlot, many crucial opportunities have been lost for the youth of Rajasthan due to these delays.
He hailed the Pachpadra Refinery as a significant achievement of the Congress government. He stated that as the project nears completion, its scale and progress reflect his government’s commitment to public welfare over political interests.
The Pachpadra Refinery is expected to meet the energy needs of the region and boost economic activities, although political rhetoric and debates surrounding the project continue.
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