Srinagar, July 1: Rubbishing the claims of Centre as well as the state government on support to unit holders in Kashmir to revive sick as well as functional industries, Valley industrialists are now demanding immediate withdrawal of CRPF from the only watch manufacturing unit of the HMT group-Chinar Watch Ltd- here.
 The unit, which sprawls over around 300 kanal of land and is located in the outskirts of Srinagar – is under CRPF occupation after Central Industrial Security Forces (CISF), which was guarding it since its establishment withdrew from the unit.
 According to industrialists, since the partial closure of the unit, CRPF entered the premises last year and have been occupying it impacting the revival of the factory.
 “Since the establishment of HMT factory, CISF personnel were guarding the unit. But due to the almost closure of the watch factory here, they (CISF) were not paid their dues. And they left the place in the year 2010,” said Shahjahan Khan of Zainakote estate.
 A group of industrialists told Greater Kashmir that as per the J&K Small Scale Industries Development Corporation Limited (SICOP) policy, the land would accommodate around 200 units.
 “If HMT land would be handed over to industrial units, not only it would generate employment but also an industrial atmosphere will be created in the state. Given its central location, it’s the best and conducive place for setting up an industry,” they said.
 Joint Director Industries and Commerce Bilal Ahmad Bhat said that ‘major portion of the factory lies with the security forces’.
 “There is a proposal to set up either Textile Park or Information Park in HMT factory. The factory is almost defunct due to the change in technology,” he said.
 A spokesperson of CRPF said, “The state government has provided them accommodation.”

Lastupdate on : Fri, 1 Jul 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Fri, 1 Jul 2011 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sat, 2 Jul 2011 00:00:00 IST