Adilabad's CCI Plant Demolished After Two Decades of Inactive Hope
The dismantling of Adilabad's CCI packing unit signals a significant loss for regional employment and economic potential in the region. Despite political parties raising awareness over years, revival efforts have not materialized.
Highlights
- •CCorporation of India's (CCI) cement packing unit demolished on May 26
- •Direct jobs lost: 5,000; indirect employment affected: 5,000
- •Political parties including BRS, BJP, and Congress raised the issue during elections
- •Land disputes with farmers over acquired lands
The dismantling of the cement packing unit at Adilabad's Cement Corporation of India (CCI) facility on May 26 marks a definitive end to operations that once employed thousands and supported regional livelihoods. As part of efforts to clear existing structures for future projects, the plant, closed since 2000, has been converted into scrap.
Employment Impact
The closure directly impacted around 5,000 employees and indirectly affected another estimated 5,000 in the Adilabad Assembly constituency. Despite its potential as a significant limestone reserve with enough resources to sustain production for nearly a century, the unit's revival has remained elusive.
Political InterestsOver two decades, numerous political parties, including BRS, BJP, and Congress, have raised concerns over the closure in their election campaigns. Efforts by opposition parties like the CCI Sadhana Committee to bring attention to the issue through protests were unsuccessful, with BJP national leader Amit Shah promising revival efforts if his party came to power.
While these hopes faded, Adilabad MLA Payal Shankar highlighted recent developments, including land proposals for an Indian Air Force township and related infrastructure. He indicated that additional 1,200 acres are being sought beyond the existing 769-acre proposal, as well as CCI unit-owned lands.
Land Ownership ControversyThe facility's ownership of 887 acres, plus a further 1,200 acres on lease, has spurred disputes. Farmers whose lands were acquired have approached the High Court seeking return due to prolonged inactivity. The CCI management issued closure notices in 2017 but faced challenges from employees' unions advocating for back wages and benefits.
Former employee Thirumani Rajanna expressed disappointment, stating that hopes of revival had dimmed significantly, impacting local development. He emphasized the need to protect land for the community's welfare.
