The textile industry in Salem is hopeful of a revival in fortunes once the proposed ₹880 crore textile park becomes a reality.

"The textile industry is spread across rural and urban parts of Salem. Branded shirts are an important segment, and there are 200 units that exclusively export to the USA and European countries. Sarees and dhotis for the domestic market are widely produced with hundreds of handlooms, power looms, and auto looms operating in Salem," said A Alagarasan, president of Salem Yarn Colouring Park.

"The growth of the textile industry was stunted due to lack of major infrastructure development. In this backdrop, the government has announced setting up a new textile park. This will revitalize the sector as both central and state governments would grant subsidies for entrepreneurs willing to open units here. Starting from installation of machinery, other expenses will be met through contributions from the industry side," he added.

K Mohan, an exporter, said, "The textile industry in Salem will go to the next level through this new textile industrial park. It will help boost exports. It will also increase employment opportunities."

"About 100 units are to be established in this textile park. Aside from these, all dyeing process units in Salem are to be brought under one roof inside the park. There are 85 dyeing process companies operating in Salem. A common effluent treatment plant (CETP) facility is also being set up for these needs at a cost of ₹150 crore. This is also included in the ₹880 crore. This will improve the environment in Salem," said another industrialist.

An officer from the Industry Department said, "This new textile park will be established in Zakir Ammapalayam. A total of 119 acres of land owned by the government will be offered to private players who would develop and set up the park. Further announcements regarding this will be released soon."

Media: Indian Express