Jaisalmer: Chief minister Ashok Gehlot announced that commercial production at the Pachpadra refinery in Barmer district will commence by December 31, 2024. Currently, Barmer oil production accounts for 25% of the country’s demand, making it the highest in the nation. Gehlot urged Cairn Energy to increase oil and gas production in the Barmer oil fields, which would boost Rajasthan’s revenue. He made these remarks during a media interaction after a review meeting of the HPCL Rajasthan Refinery Limited at the Pachpadra refinery during his visit to Barmer on Friday. Gehlot emphasized that the Pachpadra refinery is an ambitious project not only for Rajasthan but for the entire country. The refinery will not only refine oil but also develop a petrochemical complex for allied petroleum products. This project aims to establish Rajasthan as a hub for petroleum-based industries, providing employment opportunities for the local population and generating significant revenue for the state. The Chief Minister projected that the commencement of commercial production by December 31, 2024, would accelerate the pace of development and fulfill the aspirations of the people, especially in western Rajasthan. He envisioned that the state would achieve new dimensions of economic growth.
Acknowledging the project’s challenges, Chief Minister Gehlot mentioned that the foundation for the refinery was laid under the leadership of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh in 2013. However, the progress was hindered due to various reasons. After the BJP government took over, they resumed the work, which was commendable. However, the project’s cost escalated significantly during the period of work suspension. In 2017, the project cost reached 43,129 crores, and it has now surpassed 72,937 crores. Despite the cost escalation, Chief Minister Gehlot expressed gratitude to the efforts of his government and the determination of the people involved, including the officers of HPCL who are working tirelessly to enhance resources and expedite the project. He assured that the state government is fully committed to completing the project at the earliest. To expedite the refinery project, Chief Minister Gehlot called upon the central government to construct a six-lane road connecting Jodhpur to Pachpadra and Barmer.
Acknowledging the project’s challenges, Chief Minister Gehlot mentioned that the foundation for the refinery was laid under the leadership of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh in 2013. However, the progress was hindered due to various reasons. After the BJP government took over, they resumed the work, which was commendable. However, the project’s cost escalated significantly during the period of work suspension. In 2017, the project cost reached 43,129 crores, and it has now surpassed 72,937 crores. Despite the cost escalation, Chief Minister Gehlot expressed gratitude to the efforts of his government and the determination of the people involved, including the officers of HPCL who are working tirelessly to enhance resources and expedite the project. He assured that the state government is fully committed to completing the project at the earliest. To expedite the refinery project, Chief Minister Gehlot called upon the central government to construct a six-lane road connecting Jodhpur to Pachpadra and Barmer.
