RUDRAPUR: In a major boost to the industrial development of Uttarakhand, the Khurpia farm in Kichha of Udham Singh Nagar district is set to be developed as a smart industrial city under the Amritsar-Kolkata industrial corridor. The project, which involves an investment of Rs 6,180 crore, will span 1,002 acres and is expected to provide direct employment to 75,000 people.
The project received the green signal during a virtual press conference held by Union commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal on Wednesday. He announced that Khurpia’s industrial smart city will be developed as an automobile hub, with industries related to engineering and fabrication also set to be established.
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, in a communique, said, “This industrial smart city will be pivotal for enhancing the manufacturing capacity and economic development of Uttarakhand.”
According to officials, the cost of setting up the industrial hub in Khurpia, located 18 km from Rudrapur, is estimated at Rs 1,265 crore. This location benefits from connectivity by air, rail and road, making it an attractive site for investors. Additionally, industries in nearby areas such as Pantnagar, Rudrapur and Kashipur are also expected to benefit from the establishment of the new industrial zone, enhancing the overall economic activities in the region.
District magistrate Udayraj Singh said, “The land in Khurpia Farm has been transferred to SIDCUL for the development of the smart industrial city. This will create significant employment opportunities for the local population.”
Local stakeholders, including business leaders and public representatives, have welcomed the project. Industrialist Vijay Pal said, “It is a matter of pride that our city has been selected for this industrial development. The project will benefit not only the residents, but also those in nearby states.”
Gulshan Sindhi, another trader, added, “When 75,000 people arrive in the city for employment, their families will also move here, boosting the local economy.”
Meanwhile, Congress MLA Tilak Raj Behar also welcomed the announcement, stating, “This project will drive development in the city and create numerous employment opportunities. This transformative project is expected to propel Kichha, once a British-era tehsil struggling for recognition, into a hub of industrial and economic activity.”
Former BJP MLA Rajesh Shukla said, “The foundation of this industrial city was laid during the tenure of the previous govt under the CM. It is a matter of great pride that Khurpia has been included in the National Industrial Corridor Policy.”
In addition to the industrial city, other development projects underway in Khurpia include the construction of a satellite AIIMS on 100 acres, a modern degree college on 14 acres and a roadways bus stand on 3.5 acres.
