SEZs in Haryana can now opt for industrial colony licence
In a major relief to private developers in Haryana, the state cabinet on Thursday allowed grant industrial colony licences to SEZs, which have failed to take off in the state. Developers of around two dozen SEZs, most of them in Gurgaon district, will be benefited by the state government's move. Under the new policy, 15% land can be developed as residential areas, 45% for industrial units and 5% for commercial use. The remaining 35% will be left for roads, infrastructure services and public utilities, apart from open space.This follows recommendations by a panel constituted to consider and suggest alternative use of land, blocked under the notified special economic zones (SEZs) and revision of policy regarding grant of licences to industrial colonies. According to a senior industries department official, initially Haryana had received expressions of interest for 100 SEZs, but only 37 of them were eventually notified by the Union governmentTwo of the notified SEZs were later de-notified and 29 SEZs failed to take off, he said. Only four SEZs were established and work in two SEZs is still underway, he added.As per the cabinet decision, SEZs notified with land measuring 50 acres (20 hectares) and above and situated in "non-residential" land use zones, may be given the option to apply for "industrial colony license."The promoters may also develop their land as cyber city or technology city after getting approval from the government. Those availing the alternate dispensation will have to get their SEZ de-notified from the competent government, if not already de-notified.The developers will have to complete the infrastructure facilities and allot at least one-third of the plotted industrial area in respect of the industrial land use, before permission is granted to occupy facilities created under residential or commercial uses.