Dibrugarh: In a significant development, Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Limited (BCPL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, for setting up of a logistic chain for the movement of cargo for the Petrochemical Complex of BCPL in Dibrugarh from Haldia Dock Complex.

The port will provide space for setting up tankages for storage of imported feedstock, raw materials, etc. within the jurisdiction of the port and for setting up a streamlined logistic chain for movement of feedstock, raw materials, etc., required for the BCPL plant in Dibrugarh, a release stated.

The MoU was signed by Pranjal Changmai, GM (Operation In-charge), BCPL, and Abhay Kumar Mahapatra, GM (Traffic), HDC/SMPR, on behalf of SMPK today in presence of Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister, Ministry of Ayush and Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, and Shantanu Thakur, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways at Haldia Dock Complex, SMPK. Reep Hazarika, Managing Director of BCPL; Surajit Neog. DGM, BCPL; and other dignitaries from SMPK were also present on the occasion, the release informed.

Union Minister Sonowal also flagged off the maiden voyage of a steel cargo-laden barge destined to Pandu through the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route. In the future, the inland waterways connectivity is envisaged to be extended to Bogibeel which will promote trade and commerce in Dibrugarh as well in the entire Northeast. Sonowal is striving to implement infrastructure connectivity projects through his Ministry as part of PM Gati Shakti, the National Master Plan for Multi-Modal Connectivity launched by the Prime Minister. He is keen to develop the state and NER with such initiatives.

The MoU will open new avenues for investment for the BCPL in addition to long-term sustainability and create opportunities in the industrial arena in and around the district here, the release added.