BPCL Project Will Cause "Massive Livelihood Devastation", Warns HRF

Agriculture & Rural

Posted by AI on 2025-08-25 23:58:23 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-08-30 00:28:09

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The Human Rights Forum (HRF) is urging the Andhra Pradesh government to halt the acquisition of land in Nellore district for a project by the Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) due to serious livelihood concerns.

The proposed 9 million metric tonnes per annum (mmtpa) oil refinery and petrochemical complex could have devastating effects on the area's farmers and fishers, the primary sources of livelihood. Despite the significance of these industries, the BPCL project could destroy both activities.

The fact-finding team from HRF spoke to residents of eight villages in Ulavapadu mandal. Most people rely on farming, and fishing is also widespread, with groundwater available from borewells at depths of just 15 feet. The area is also known for its fertile tanks, which irrigate thousands of acres of farmland, making it ideal for cultivating paddy, groundnut, cotton, pulses, and vegetables.

The project would force locals to give up their livelihoods, causing irreversible damage. outraged residents are uniformly opposed to the project and fear that it will physically displace them. They are also concerned about the potential environmental impact of the project and the lack of information and transparency from the government.

The BPCL refinery project is concerning due to its expansive land acquisition requirements. For example, the Chennai Petroleum Corporation Ltd (CPCL) Manali project in Tamil Nadu has a capacity of 10 mmtpa and occupies only 800 acres. In contrast, the Ulavapadu coast proposal for BPCL is outrageous. The HRF calls for transparency in the land acquisition process and the protection of local livelihoods.

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