Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR), a brainchild of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is emerging as a transformative development in the Indian industrial landscape.
Located approximately 110 km from Ahmedabad in Gujarat, this ambitious project aims to overcome significant challenges such as flooding and attract substantial investments in manufacturing, particularly in the semiconductor and electronics sectors. This article explores the key features and recent developments in the Dholera SIR.
The Canal: A Showcase of Innovation
The centerpiece of the Dholera SIR is a 6.5-km-long canal that runs through the region. This canal not only serves as a waterway but also offers recreational amenities, well-maintained gardens, and gazebo tents for visitors to enjoy. Its construction has addressed the long-standing issue of flooding, which had deterred potential investors despite attractive incentives and MOUs.
Infrastructure Development and Smart City Features
Dholera SIR is being developed in phases, with the first phase spanning 22.54 sq km. To facilitate rapid growth, the region boasts a high-tech “experience center” that introduces visitors to its vision as India’s first greenfield smart city project with a footprint larger than Singapore. A command center equipped with thousands of sensors monitors and provides emergency responses across the industrial city, including residential areas.
Over 72 km of roads have been constructed, complete with utility ducts, cycling tracks, and rapid transit corridors. A four-lane expressway under construction will reduce the travel time between Dholera and Ahmedabad to just one hour, further enhancing connectivity.
Investment Prospects and Setbacks
Dholera gained national attention when Vedanta and Foxconn announced plans to establish a fab plant and semiconductor display plant in the region, amounting to a $20 billion investment. This decision sparked controversy and criticism from other states vying for the project. However, Foxconn’s withdrawal from the joint venture with Vedanta created uncertainty.
Despite these setbacks, officials remain optimistic about individual interests from Foxconn and Vedanta in setting up their respective plants in Dholera. Additionally, the Tatas and a consortium led by Airbus plan to manufacture transport aircraft in Dholera, pending the completion of the airport.
Green Initiatives and Upcoming Projects
Dholera is actively pursuing green projects, such as Tata Chemicals’ lithium-ion battery plant and RPower’s solar cell and module manufacturing plant. Tata Power Solar has commissioned a massive 300 MW single-axis solar tracker system, while Torrent Power’s 100 MW solar plant is already operational.
The state government is committed to establishing a semiconductor and electronics ecosystem in Dholera, offering competitive power rates and water availability. The region is also raising its defenses against flooding with earth fill exercises and bund construction along upstream rivers.
Dholera SIR stands as a testament to India’s aspirations for innovation and industrial growth. Its well-planned infrastructure, strategic location, and commitment to sustainability make it a promising destination for future investments. With its bold vision and ongoing developments, Dholera is poised to become a key player in India’s economic transformation.
