Q1: What was the driving reason behind the creation of Payal Infrastructure Project (PIP) and how is it positioned to support India's industrial growth in a low-carbon future?
In an exclusive conversation with Outlook Business, Arete Group Director Siraj Saiyed discusses how sustainable industrial parks like the Payal Infrastructure Project are aligning rapid growth with India’s net zero commitments.
Q1: What was the driving reason behind the creation of Payal Infrastructure Project (PIP) and how is it positioned to support India's industrial growth in a low-carbon future?
PIP reflects our vision to recognize the role industrial ecosystems play in regional development. Drawing from examples like Vapi and GIDC it aims to not only generate employment but also spurs the growth of service sectors, schools, hospitals, malls, and community infrastructure—leading to holistic human development.
On the low-carbon front, PIP is aligned with India’s 2070 net zero vision. The park is investing in green infrastructure such as solar parks and green hydrogen generation to support the efforts of industries to reduce their carbon footprint.
Q2: Are you seeing demand from clean-tech or energy-intensive industries seeking sustainable infrastructure?
Yes, as green transition accelerates, these companies are increasingly seeking locations that offer sustainable and forward-looking infrastructure. Many industries within PIP, especially those in chemical manufacturing, are integrating clean-tech into their operations, signaling a shift toward sustainable industrialisation.
Q3: What kind of investments have gone into PIP’s development so far, and what is planned for the future?
Approximately, we have invested Rs 1200 crores in Phase 1 of infrastructure development. So far, clients have committed investments totaling ₹12,000 crores, which will create 8,000 jobs. Phase 2 will be of a similar scale and will be developed based on our estimate of infrastructure expansion requirements.
Q4: What role has the Gujarat government played in supporting PIP’s development?
The Gujarat government has played a key role by earmarking the PCPIR (Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region) area, making it easier to set up industries handling hazardous waste, thanks to dedicated infrastructure like deep-sea discharge lines. This designation helps create a plug-and-play ecosystem. Government efforts include infrastructure support (roads, port access, nearby airports like Vadodara, Surat, and Ahmedabad) and policy incentives. In addition, the Centre’s PLI schemes benefit industries operating within the park.
Q5: How does the ecosystem model work for industrial ease?
Much like the IT sector benefited from ready IT parks, PIP follows a plug-and-play model for chemical and manufacturing industries. We provide ready infrastructure, letting industries focus on production and marketing instead of spending CAPEX infrastructure setup. The success depends on three players:
1. Government – creates regions like PCPIR and supports with broad infrastructure.
2. Developer (PIP) – builds industrial park with turnkey infrastructure for industries.
3. Industries – leverage this ecosystem for their greenfield project to scale efficiently.
Q7: Are there plans to further integrate renewable energy, like solar or green hydrogen?
Yes, a 50 MW solar park is in the pipeline. Additionally, a dedicated firm is working on a modular green hydrogen model using just water and solar energy—ensuring it’s truly green. This initiative will provide clean energy to industries within the park and further reduce the region’s carbon intensity.
The primary goal is to sustain and grow the park in a way that supports industries and enriches lives. Social infrastructure is a focus—ensuring families of employees have access to healthcare, education, community spaces, and a good quality of life. This aligns with their broader vision of social living.
(The reporter traveled to Gujarat at the invitation of the company)