IAF objection delays gas cracker project

DIBRUGARH, August 19: The Rs 4,000-crore Assam Gas Cracker Project is being delayed due to objections raised by the Indian Air Force (IAF), which has a MiG fighter base near Chabua, and wants the Dibrugarh district administration to construct the project at least 20 kilometres away from the base. However, the IAF has lately agreed to allow establishment of the gas cracker plant outside a six-kilometre radius from the Chabua IAF base. This would mean that the height of certain tall structures of the industry may have to be reduced so as to provide a clear runway approach to aircraft of the Air Force. According to sources, Reliance is using this objection to its advantage to wrench out some more concessions from the Assam government. The government is already under tremendous public pressure to get the gas cracker project through.