Deadline set for leather cluster project clearance in Agra

AGRA: Divisional commissioner Pradeep Bhatnagar has fixed a deadline of one month for district officials to obtain clearances from various concerned departments including forest, pollution control board and fire among others for the Mega Leather Cluster project, proposed to be set up in Singhna village in the district.

Addressing a meeting of city industrialists on Wednesday, Bhatnagar appointed joint director (industry) to ensure compliance in this regard.

The estimated cost for setting up the project is Rs 100 crore and it has the capacity to house around 225 units.

The cluster, proposed to be completed in two years, is being executed by Agra Footwear Manufacturers and Exporters Chamber (AFMEC), which has formed a Special Purpose Vehicle by the name of Agra Mega Leather Cluster Company Limited (AMLCC Ltd).

Puran Dawar, president of AFMEC, said, "The project is being developed in 62 acres of land where private players can buy plots and set up non-polluting footwear and allied industries. The government will pay 50% of the total cost of developing common basic facilities at the industrial zone."

Dawar said Agra is the largest footwear manufacturing hub in the country and setting up of the cluster will boost capital flow and is required to meet future growth prospects.